David Cloud (95C) cherished his four years as starting catcher for the Berry baseball team, so it’s only fitting that his name be associated with a place that was close to his heart – Bowdoin Field.
Thanks to the generous support of family, friends, teammates and colleagues, baseball alumni now have their own place to gather, reconnect and cheer on current Vikings – the “Cloud 9” viewing deck in right field. Sporting David’s name and jersey number, it was built to commemorate what would have been his 50th birthday. He died in 2023.
“David was so proud of the years he played for Berry,” Heather Taylor Cloud (97C) said of her late husband. “He felt Berry set him up for success in life.”
Succeed he did, maximizing the value of his Berry business management degree during 25 years with the Aflac supplemental insurance company.
Shortly after David’s death, Heather and youngest son Aiden (26c) came to David Beasley, Berry’s associate athletic director and head baseball coach, expressing a desire to create a memorial. Beasley knew just what to suggest. The resulting effort raised funds and brought former teammates together.
“It’s been very meaningful to see everyone support this project and the many baseball alumni reconnecting through it,” Heather said.
While the Mountain Day dedication was emotional for all involved, Beasley said it provided “a wonderful opportunity to honor one of our own who left us way too early.” Reflecting on Bowdoin Field’s latest addition, he added, “The deck is a great place for baseball alumni to gather and support the team.”
David would no doubt approve.
