Court of Appeals, Division II, holds memorial for Judge David Armstrong

The Washington State Court of Appeals, Division II, convened a special-session memorial to honor Judge David Armstrong, bringing together current and former judges, commissioners and family members to share memories and reflections.

Members of the court and guests described Armstrong’s long legal career and personal interests, noting his service on the bench, his readable judicial opinions, and lifelong passions such as music and sailing. The presiding judge said the memorial—held with the family’s blessing—was intended to stop the court’s work briefly so colleagues and friends could gather and remember Armstrong’s life and service.

Judge Maxa, who shared a background in civil defense practice with Armstrong, recalled their common work for PEMCO and Allstate and said Armstrong’s appointment to the Court of Appeals inspired his own judicial aspirations. “I didn’t know Dave very well, but … he gave me inspiration,” Judge Maxa said, recounting how a transfer of cases after Armstrong’s appointment led to years of professional connection.

Speakers emphasized Armstrong’s character and wit: anecdotes included a recurring booming laugh, a tongue-in-cheek article Armstrong wrote for the Idaho Bar News about jury selection, and stories about his dedication to duty—such as accepting a difficult murder case early in his career and performing it conscientiously. Colleagues described him as a conscientious writer who typed his own opinions and could be persuaded in conferences when shown legal authority.

Attendees also remembered Armstrong’s adventurous side. The presiding judge noted that Armstrong sailed his 40-foot Valiant sailboat to Hawaii and back alone in 1977 and later circumnavigated the islands with family. Later hobbies included motorcycle riding in his 60s; colleagues marked his retirement with humor and a spoof on a familiar song title.

Beyond courtroom work, speakers said Armstrong mentored young lawyers and engaged in social-justice work through his church. The court’s presiding official encouraged those present to continue sharing stories in the adjacent social area established for the memorial.

The presiding judge thanked Armstrong’s family—Stephanie, Quincy and Maggie—and the staff and volunteers who organized the event, playfully noting the chocolate-chip cookies on offer. The memorial concluded when the presiding judge formally adjourned the special session.

The memorial was held pursuant to Court of Appeals Administrative Rule 20; no formal court business or votes were recorded in this session.