David Clyde Blythe's Obituary
David Clyde Blythe, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, in San Bernardino, California, at the age of 94. He was reunited with his cherished wife, “Midge” Sophie Blythe, who preceded him in death after 53 years of marriage.
David was born on July 25, 1930, in Guymon, Oklahoma, to Richard and Ruth (Cawfield) Blythe. He was the second of 13 children along with his twin sister Cleo. He grew up in a large, loving family where Country and Bluegrass music played a central role. His father, Richard, was an award-winning fiddler and banjo player, his brother Dan played guitar and sang country music professionally. Fred, the youngest brother, also played the guitar and sang. David played harmonica forming a complete family band that was a pleasure to hear.
David’s lifelong passion for aviation began as a young boy, watching planes soar above him and dreaming of flying one day. At 17, he earned his pilot’s license, and his love for aviation remained a constant throughout his life. David owned several aircraft, including a Cessna 180 and an S35 Bonanza, but his passion for flight didn’t stop with planes. He also owned two helicopters at one point, which were army surplus and used the good parts to make one functioning helicopter and became certified to fly it. His love for aviation was more than a hobby—it was a way of life.
David, Midge and the kids spent countless hours visiting airports and air shows. David flew his family to Oklahoma to joyous family reunions throughout the years. They also enjoyed weekend family outings visiting family and friends, Kiddie Land in San Bernardino and other family attractions. As a family they enjoyed numerous vacations and went on yearly road trips as well.
David “Clyde” graduated from Texhoma High School in 1948 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950. While stationed at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, he met Midge, the love of his life, while she was visiting her sister Susie. Clyde and Midge were married in 1953, and their first child, Linda was born in 1955. Their family grew with the births of their sons, Johnny in 1957 (on Midge’s birthday) and Jimmy in 1963 on the 10th anniversary of their marriage. David and Midge raised their family in San Bernardino, California, where David worked hard to provide for his family.
David’s professional life was built on a foundation of hard work and dedication. He took advantage of the GI Bill to earn his associate’s degree and later became a journeyman electrician. In 1969, he founded his own business, Blythe Electric, which he ran with pride for many years. David was known for his exceptional electrical work on gas stations, where his craftsmanship and reliability earned him the respect of his colleagues and clients.
David’s legacy is full of accomplishments, success, kindness, intelligence, and a profound love for his family. He was the proud father of three children, Linda, Johnny, and Jimmy, and the loving grandfather to nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Whether he was flying his airplane, listening to country music, or spending time with his family and friends, David’s enthusiasm for life was contagious. He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend—someone who brought adventure, warmth, and joy to everyone he encountered.
Funeral Services
A celebration of David’s life will be held on January 9, 2024, at Bobbitt’s Memorial Chapel, 1299 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino, California, 92404. Friends and family are invited to gather at 10:30 AM to honor David’s memory and the legacy of love, adventure, and determination he leaves behind.
There will be a reception immediately following the chapel service in the Bobbitt Courtyard, where family and friends can gather to share memories, stories, and celebrate David’s life
Burial will follow at 1:30 PM at Montecito Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3520 E. Washington St., Colton, California, 92324.
David’s spirit, his love for aviation, and his zest for life will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?