David M. Leaf's Obituary
David McPherron LeafDavid McPherron Leaf, a longtime Oakland resident, died May 9 in Oakland. He was 91.He was born July 21, 1920, in Los Angeles, the son of Edward and Arrington Leaf. He was an architect, specializing in homes and commercial properties.David graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in 1943 with a bachelor's degree in architecture. He served as a first lieutenant in the Army during World War II and received a master's in architecture from Cal in 1947.He married Claire Tapley Feb. 24, 1951, in Berkeley.Early in his career, he worked with Joseph Esherick and then with Gardner Dailey. He and his wife moved to Rome for three years to work for Aramco Overseas Co. Rome influenced his work for the rest of his life. He was a partner with Reynolds and Chamberlain Architects in Oakland, where he designed elementary and junior high schools and Merritt College. He later worked with Hirsh Morton in Lafayette. An accomplished draftsman, he drew his designs by hand long after computers became essential tools in the architectural profession. He was a member of the American Institute of Architects.Besides Oakland, he also lived in Aptos and Alameda.In addition to architecture and Italy, David loved art, dogs, the beach, hiking in the Sierra and fine cuisine. After moving to Alameda six years ago, he pursued his interest in watercolors. His works appear in two books, including one about barns in Sonoma County.Survivors include his wife of Berkeley; three sons, Bruce of Boulder, Colo., Stephen of Redwood City and Alan of Oakland; a daughter, Karen of Davis; a sister, Nancy Bybee of Hercules; and eight grandchildren.Contributions may be made to the University of California at Berkeley, the American Red Cross, or to the charity of the donor's choice.A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.Chapel of the Chimes mortuary in Oakland is handling arrangements.
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