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David Pregerson Obituary

February 15, 1990 - December 31, 2013 Dave believed in the power of love and beauty that resides within each of us. When he said "I love you," he meant it. David refused to follow other people's definition of how to live his life. He personified the challenge he made to himself and everyone he loved - dare to know yourself --sometimes to the awe and chagrin of his family and friends. David was a tireless creative partner freely offering his talents and wisdom to others. Dave lived life fearlessly, always excited to see what was around the next corner. With a camera in hand, he was always ready to document and humorously narrate whatever he was witnessing. Dave packed more into his 23 years than most people three times his age. Dave was authentic. A few months ago, his Dad asked Dave whether he feared anything. Dave said, "Not really." Pressing further, his Dad asked, "Not even death?" Dave laughed and said, "That's ridiculous, why would anyone be afraid of death?" He was at peace, he said, he had "figured it out." We don't doubt it for a second, and take great comfort in Dave's knowledge. Dave graduated from UCLA film school this year and executive produced the recently released documentary film "Journey to Planet Sanity." Dave kept a framed letter on his desk that he wrote he wrote 10 years ago to kids at his summer camp: Dear People of the World, I, David Prego, regret to inform you all that I was unable to make it to camp this year. I am sure all the children will find some way to entertain yourselves in my absence. But know that my spirit lives on in the hearts of the youth, and in the eye of the Beholder. I wish you all a good day and all a good night, and remember me, not as primo, but as a hero¿ Much love, Prego Dave, and his brother, Bradley, created an organic vegetable garden (www.grow-good.org) at the Salvation Army's Bell Homeless Shelter the largest homeless shelter west of the Mississippi. The garden provides bushels of produce and jobs to the residents of the shelter, integrating mental health therapeutic programing and classes on horticulture and healthy living to help residents transition back into the mainstream. If you would like to make a donation in Dave Pregerson's honor, here is a link to the Grow-Good Garden project's website: www.grow-good.org With best wishes for a healthy and loved-filled New Year, Sharon, Dean and Bradley Pregerson

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Jan. 3, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for David Pregerson

Not sure what to say?





Shana McGolrick

December 31, 2024

I am so sorry that the "happiest time of year" comes when for you it must be the saddest. I am the last person he spoke to; he was one of my best friends and I just want to let you know he was the most beautiful soul I´ve come across and I wanted to remind you that he´s here with us just not in the physical form. His love and spirit go on

Susan Herzog and famiy

January 6, 2014

Dearest Sharon, Dean, Bradley, Bernardine and Harry: My heart has been heavy with the loss of precious David and from worry about all of you. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you always.

Susie Krieser

January 5, 2014

Dearest Sharon, Dean and Bradley,
Our hearts break for you. Although we haven't seen David in a while, he always was a bright light, full of fun and energy.
His memory will live on in the joy he has bestowed, and in the hearts of those he has left behind. May you all find calm and peace in your hearts.
Sending you love,
Susie, Kurt, Kevin and Keith

Adam and Eva Corman

January 4, 2014

I spent my summer's with the Pregerson's while working in LA about 15 years ago. Sometimes I would babysit for him and his big brother. I always knew that he would grow up to be successful. At that time he was very young. And being the little prankster he would tell jokes which would't usually hit the mark. But he practiced and once in a while we would all be floored with laughter. Although I haven't seen him since he was little, from what everyone has written he did grow up to be a wonderful young man. Even though his life ended too soon, his spirit lives on in our hearts. My fiancé Eva and I would like to give our love to his family. Our thoughts are always with you.

Loura Alaverdi

January 4, 2014

Dear Pregerson Family,

You are in my thoughts and prayers. Although I never met David, it is obvious that he was an extraordinary young man who lived his life without fear and with great passion. He comes from a beautiful family that has inspired and helped so many people. I am deeply sorry for your loss and will keep you in my prayers.

Shari Creed

January 3, 2014

Dear Pregerson Family,
You have been on our minds since we heard the devastating news about David. Though short in years, from what you have written, it would seem Dave's life was lived fully, with purpose and with great insight. He made a difference in the world at large. We wish you strength as you navigate the waters of such loss. You remain in our thoughts and prayers. With heartfelt sympathy, Tommy and Shari Creed and family

January 3, 2014

A great person from a generous and giving family, he will be missed.

taken at a wedding last year

Nancy Malone-Corman

January 3, 2014

I have listened to Harry over the years retell his wonderful interactions with David. He and Bradley have been in our family since birth and will live forever in our memories. Adam and Brian were always impressed by the bond of the brothers and are horribly devastated by this loss. This catastrophy has caused my sons to mend a serious rift in their fraternal relationship. For that I will be forever grateful. Words fail me to adequately express our sympathy. Your loss is so far beyond my words. We thank you for the wonderful example Dave and all of your family have been to us.

Barbara Marder

January 3, 2014

I am the New York grandmother of Alana Sue Marder. I wanted to express my deepest sympathy to your family and let you know what the NY/LA kids have said about your son.
Never have I heard such beautiful memories expressed and such sadness over his untimely passing. David was obviously loved by all his Pali and Ca buddies and they mourn his loss terribly. May G-d grant you the strength during this most difficult of times.
Sincerely,
Barbara Marder

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Memorial Events
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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support David's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

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