Photo courtesy of Luyben Dilday - Long Beach - Long Beach
Long Beach, California
Oct 27, 1944 – Feb 17, 2014
On Monday morning, David John Duran (10.27.44-02.17.14) died peacefully in his sleep from natural causes. He served an honorable 22 years for the Long Beach police department. Survived by his wife of 37 years Pamela, children Nicholas, Lauren, and Sherrill Andrew Dean, sister Yvonne Clayton, father-in-law Herman Niestrath, son-in-law Anthony Kane, and granddaughter due to arrive this April.
Loved by wonderful friends and family, Dave was a strong yet tenderhearted man. His physical strength was demonstrated through innate athleticism. He was an avid handball and football player. He played on scholarship for Brigham Young University and coached the former Long Beach Rams. He was a vice officer and a member of the "500 Club," which means he could bench-press 500 pounds while undercover as Hank E. Panky. He was bold and fearless and, believe-it-or-not, once choked-out a live bull to prevent it from fighting.
A self-proclaimed audiophile, Dave accumulated an impressive music collection of over 10,000 songs, ranging from Pavarotti to Gangsta's Paradise. He surrounded himself with music and laughter, hosting BBQ's featuring his "secret weapon," a spice called Butt Rub. When not entertaining, he would retreat to his man cave in the desert accompanied by his trusty companion, an English Bull Dog/Pug named Cali, aka "My Shorty Forty."
Ultimately Dave was a provider, a protector, and a good man who took great care of our family. His big smile and even bigger presence, his warmth and sensitivity, and the care with which he demonstrated his affection will be missed by all. His spirit lives on in our hearts and the heart of his community.
A celebration of life is being arranged for Sunday afternoon, March 9th at Alfredo's Beach Club in Belmont Shore from 1-5pm. All are welcome to join us in this big beach party, as Dad would have wanted. Those who wish to make a donation towards his memorial can do so at http://www.gofundme.com/7069lw
Luyben Family Dilday-Mottell Mortuary (562) 425-6401
www.luybenfamilyd-m.com
WOW, You finally beat me at something, pool, running from cops, eating, handball, you were no match! OK
Bob Malibu Martin
March 08, 2014 | Thousand Oaks, CA
Dave Duran had the most optimistic outlook on life. I met him in the 70's when he worked for the police department and I was a waitress and bartender in the Shore. He and his partner always made sure those of us that worked at night were safe. He had the greatest laugh and smile always. Pam, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Rosemary Hernandez
March 06, 2014 | Long Beach, CA
I. Will always treasure the great times we had at Sam's Family Spa in the desert with David & his beautiful wife Pam. Dave loved to play penocle. He took great Joe in beating my 7 brothers & I many times at his desert "Man Cave". We could never beat him. God bless the family. I will miss his many e-mails.
Tom & Willy Grogan
March 04, 2014 | Torrance, CA
David was always very sweet & kind to us we loved him just for being his self but beyond that he saved my brothers life after being run over by a jeep....many, many good memories and lots of love.Bonnie McNeely (Suffield)
Bonnie McNeely
March 01, 2014 | Nevada City, CA
Dave we had alot of good times in the police department as well playing football on the Long Beach flag football team. I will miss you my brother. Jim Fortier
February 28, 2014
David was a kind and funny man. Always laughing at something and ready to help you at the drop of a hat, he was family to most friend to all. He will be missed, May God keep him at his right hand. AMEN.
Wilkie Adams
February 26, 2014 | Anaheim, CA
I will always miss you, David. We had fun when we were younger. You made me laugh and took me places and included me in some of your "teenage" activities. I got to watch you play football at Cerritos College and I was so proud when you made that touchdown, buy mistake. I think you were more surprised than anyone. Until we meet again, loving you and keeping you in my heart always and forever. Your cousin. Barbara Jean
Barbara Chaney
February 26, 2014 | Livermore, CA
You were a source of pride to all of us in our family. We loved and respected you. You will be missed, but NEVER forgotten. Sis
Yvonne Clayton
February 26, 2014 | Cerritos, CA
What a terrific guy, great football player, a true gentleman, and someone who made me laugh during "nutrition times" in the area outside the cafeteria at South Gate High School! He will definitely be missed by so many and I know he must have been truly loved by his family! May the Lord comfort you and may the void in your hearts be filled by the precious memories you hold dear of Dave!!!
Bonnie Benson Concialdi
February 24, 2014 | Mission Viejo, CA