David Lee Muniz

Many things can be said about David Lee Muniz. Known to friends and acquaintances as a friendly, energetic, empathic and decisive man, his compassionate nature would always shine through, revealing his charm, warmth and conscientious demeanor. He was warmhearted, gentle and organized in all the things he sought to accomplish. David was a mentor, a natural "teacher" capable of seeing things clearly, leading others and bringing out the best in all of those around him. He generally had a focus on harmony and peace.

David was born on June 1, 1961 at Kaiser Hospital in Hollywood, CA. His parents were Elias and Dixie Muniz. David was raised in Arcadia, CA. When he was young, David's friends and family found that "straightforward" and "honest" were perfect words to describe him. Even as a child, David demonstrated strong qualities of self-confidence, perceptive ability and a disposition that was enjoyable to those around him.

He had several half-siblings, but took care not to get involved in too many family conflicts. David was a person who genuinely understood and cared for others, making powerful connections with those he knew.

As a young boy, David was imaginative, ingenious, clever and a "novel" thinker. Regardless of whether his peers were older or younger, or came from different backgrounds, David could easily relate to other kids. He sang in the Boys' Choir at Arcadia Presbyterian Church. In his spare time he liked singing and acting, cooking, and drawing, among other activities. However, to David, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his many friends.

During his high school years, David had a natural flair for cheering on and applauding just about everyone. He was constantly offering his support and encouragement to fellow members of the groups and activities in which he participated. He graduated from Arcadia High School in 1979. He did well in school and genuinely enjoyed telling stories in a way that drew people to him. In this way, David had a talent for becoming the center of attention, a kind of social catalyst. David was often found to be the lead person facilitating a group activity, frequently filling the role of being "the life of the party." Teachers and classmates knew David as an excellent listener. He placed a high value on learning and always understood that there was a new lesson to be grasped waiting for him just around the corner.

David did well in college, as a result of his being intuitive and finely organized. He earned his undergraduate degree in Drama from Cal State L. A. He also pursued graduate school, earning his MFA in Acting & Directing from Rutgers University. The skill of being a good communicator helped David immensely during his college days. He was comfortable with abstract information and theories and tended to thrive on the subjects that forced him to think. No matter what class it was, David was always very perceptive and embraced the mental challenges that his college experience provided.

Always considered a "good" friend, David sought to understand the things that others enjoyed. For this reason David always seemed to possess a never-ending collection of acquaintances. David's friends found him easy to know and get along with because of his talent for being socially at ease, adept at conversation, and always amiable in his dealings with others. David would always seek to learn what his friends enjoyed, and he would go out of his way to make sure that their needs were met. David was always seen as the type of person who was the more gracious giver. In fact, he sometimes felt ill at ease when he was the one on the receiving end. Throughout his life he had many friends. He is fondly remembered by a host of longtime friends from coast to coast.

David was married on July 6, 2012, to Anil Coelho, after being together for more than 20 years. Compassionate and devoted, David worked hard to make his family happy. He was always generous with his time and this meant that Anil came first in David's book. He was always caring and made certain that he considered Anil's feelings. By trusting his emotions, David did his best to make sure that both the marriage and home life ran smoothly. This is just one more example of how David was truly a person of empathy.

David experienced success in his work life over and over again. His primary occupation was his primary occupation was as a businessman and a singer. He ran the family business, Taco Lita, a well-established San Gabriel Valley institution. David always made the effort to understand what was needed at work, and was well known by his colleagues as a team player. David took pride in managing his professional responsibilities and seemed to always know what was necessary to succescsfully complete a project. David was one to take the initiative and his skills at working cooperatively were highly valued. David continually sought to learn what his co-workers did well and how they were most effective, a talent that enabled him to help them develop their own potential.

Because he was organized and methodical, David took great pleasure in his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were entertaining, singing, cooking, elaborate costumes, and comedy, among many other interests. David enjoyed sharing his passions with others and could singularly focus on one hobby at a time.

David's faith was important to him. He attended Arcadia Presbyterian Church in his youth, and All Saints Pasadena as an adult. During that time, he sang in the church choirs. He was compassionate and warm hearted, someone who truly cared for others and that was clearly demonstrated in his work with the congregation.

David enjoyed traveling, and because he was so well organized, he would take on the responsibility of planning and scheduling all of the family vacations. His gift for keeping things lively meant that vacations with David were always enjoyable. Favorite vacations included traveling to Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, among many other destinations. David loved to travel.

David was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of David's favorites was Kaybee, a toy poodle, who was David's constant companion. David also loved Little Abner, a German Shepherd from his childhood, and Minnie, another toy poodle. His family was rounded out by his sweet dogs Tilly, Reggie, and Toby, who provided great comfort in David's last days.

David passed away on July 28, 2016 at his beloved home in Los Angeles, CA. He had struggled with health issues for several years. He is survived by his loving husband, Anil, and a wide circle of family and friends. Services were held at the Chapel at Live Oak Cemetery in Monrovia, CA. David will be laid to rest at Live Oak Cemetery in Monrovia, CA.

Throughout his life, David was a gregarious and enthusiastic man. He was generous in sharing his personal attributes, giving and helping those he knew and loved. He would often fill the role of coach, bringing out the best in everyone. He was imaginative, original, tender hearted and easy to get along with. David leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and cherished memories. Everyone whose lives he touched will dearly remember David Lee Muniz.

Arrangements under the direction of Turner & Stevens Live Oak Mortuary, Monrovia, CA.