David John Griffiths

David John Griffiths, born June 18th, 1936 in Scranton, PA, passed away March, 10th, 2023.

David lived a full and accomplished life. He dedicated 26 years serving his country, as an officer and physicist, in the United States Navy. During his service, he specialized in underwater detection, developing  and enhancing sonar systems. With the Navy, he traveled much of the world and made many lifelong friends. He was respected for his scientific contributions by his colleagues and was admired for his leadership and dedication to duty. He reached the rank of Commander before retiring and entering the private sector, where he continued his scientific pursuits to benefit the US and several allied Navy’s overseas.

His life of service extended to his time spent in the Boy Scouts of America, serving as Scoutmaster for many years. His experiences and the impact he had on young men’s lives in his troop, led him to training other Boy Scout leaders through the Wood Badge program, for more than two decades. His training of many more Scout leaders both in the BSA, as well as in the Explorer Scouts, left so many involved in the organizations with skill sets to produce countless life affirming experiences, for youngsters involved in scouting across the country.  David was also an avid backpacker, leading many on treks in some of the most beautiful places in the USA. He found such joy in passing on his knowledge and skills to others.

Much of David’s free time was spent passionately pursuing hobbies. These included woodcarving, hiking, beer and wine making, crafting jewelry, building (& dabbled at playing) Dulcimers, cooking and writing. His passion to learn how to drive horse drawn carriages, led him to spend the latter part of his life in Ocala, FL, where he lived, trained and became quite accomplished.

He is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne, seven of his eight children from a previous marriage, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He will be remembered and missed by so many family members, friends, colleagues, shipmates and scouts. May he Rest In Peace.

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