KPTZ has lost one of it’s longtime DJs, David Miller, host of the Monday afternoon 1960s rock and roll show, Drift away. David passed away on August 25. To us at KPTZ he was known as Dr. Dave. Dr. Dave played a 2-hour set every Monday, with an emphasis on The Beatles and other 60s artists, with some comedic records and Broadway musical tunes thrown in. Dr. Dave had a great radio voice, a big laugh, a dry wit, and a big heart. During his shows, Dave always included a heartfelt plug for his favorite charity, the Port Townsend Food Bank and its manager Shirley Moss, for the good work she does.
To some, Dr. Dave was known as Dr. David Miller, PhD. That title came with his Doctorate in Education, earned at Miami University of Ohio, not far from his family home near Dayton, Ohio. That led David to a 30-year career as a school superintendent for several public school districts in Northern and Southern California. He also shared his experience and expertise with countries in Africa and the Middle East by advising them on modernizing and improving their education systems.
Dave always told people that he was best known as “Vicky’s husband.” David also has a daughter Becky Sims and her husband Bryce who live in Houston, Texas and stepchildren Aaron & Chrissy Murphy, Andrea & Tim Lawton with grandsons Issac (6), Daniel (4) and Julian (2) as well as Matthew and Claudia Murphy and granddaughter Charlotte (18 mos).
On Monday, August 30 from 1-3pm, The Briceman’s Boxed Chocolates show was in memory of and dedicated to Brice’s friend, Dr. Dave. Click here to listen to the archived broadcast, which is available for streaming until Sept. 12, 2021.
Remembrances for Dr. Dave can be made as cash donations to the Port Townsend Food Bank. KPTZ, Dr. Dave’s radio home since 2013, is also accepting memorial donations in his honor.
We’ll miss you Dave!
