David Merle Tatum

1948 - 2024

In Loving Memory of David Merle Tatum.

March 28, 1948 December 6, 2024. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Merle Tatum, a kind, generous and caring soul who brought immense joy and love to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Dave left us to go to his eternal home on Friday, December 6, 2024, surrounded by his family he cherished so deeply.

Born in Merced, California, Dave grew up with a natural warmth and a quick wit that endeared him to all. He possessed a rare gift for making people laugh, and his sense of humor was a source of light even in the darkest of times. To his family, he was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and uncle, whose love knew no bounds. To his friends, he was a steadfast companion, always ready with a smile, a story, or a helping hand.

Dave believed in the power of connection, and his life was a testament to the joy of building relationships. Whether hosting family dinners, sharing a laugh with old friends, or simply lending a listening ear, he made everyone feel valued and seen. Dave retired from AT&T/Pacific Telephone as an Area Manager for Construction and Engineering in 2008 after 40 years of service. He also gave back the community, serving dinners on Christmas to those less fortunate and for many years, he drove patients to their chemotherapy treatments and was a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels.

He is survived by his girlfriend, Kathy Starbuck, daughter Brooke Taylor, future son-in-law Ed Bais, daughter Courtney Tatum Sparrow, daughter Bliss Propes and son-in-law Andy, son Robby Jeppesen and daughter-in-law, Holly, sister Julie Vitato and brother-in-law Richard, nephew Kevin Vitato and his wife Nicole, nephew Kory Vitato and his wife Dani, nephew Craig Tatum and his wife Christy, niece Melinda (Mindy) Martin and her husband Corey, and nephew Justin Parle and his wife Alexie. His grandkids included Averi Kerr, Aiden Kerr, Bradie Taylor, Bailey Sparrow, Lili Boesch, Logan Boesch, Maxwell Propes, Riley Jeppesen, Ryder Jeppesen and Rhett Jeppesen, Claire and Sam Scheidt, Skylar and Carson Sanders. His great grandkids included Rhett and Weston Sanders and Margot Scheidt. He is preceded in death by his late wife, Brenda Tatum, his father Dallas Tatum, his mother, Bessie Tatum, his brother, Dennis Tatum and sister Nancy Padilla.

While his presence will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that Dave's legacy lives on in the laughter he inspired, the kindness he showed, and the love he gave so freely.

A celebration of Dave's life will be held on Saturday, December 14th at Central Presbyterian Church 1920 Canal Street, Merced. Viewing will start at 9:45 a.m. and the Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00 a.m. Reception to follow across the street at the Hoffmeister Center. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to New Beginnings for Merced County Animals, Merced Hinds Hospice or the American Cancer Society, organizations that were close to his heart.

Rest in peace, Dave. You are now with your eternal savior. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts forever. Until we meet again.