David Lloyd Brazda

David Lloyd Brazda

May 2, 1943 – August 4, 2025

David Lloyd Brazda, 82, of Sun City, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on August 4, 2025. Born on May 2, 1943, in Dodge City, Kansas, to Charles Brazda and Alvina (Sohm) Brazda. David was born in Dodge City, Kansas, and grew up in Larned, Kansas, living on the family farm where he developed a love of gardening and affinity for nature, animals, and the outdoors. David would later move to Dodge City and continued his education majoring in biology and chemistry to become a teacher.

While attending St. Mary's college, David worked in a tailor shop making suits and taking orders. The shop owner became a friend, allowing David to work in the shop and helping him to afford his education. After earning his degree, David began his career in Kansas as a teacher.

In 1966, David was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as a Corpsman and occupational therapist, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Known for his energetic personality, he loved trying new things, traveling, and spending time with friends. While on leave, David visited California and fell in love with the sunshine and vibrant life. Even after returning to base, he made frequent trips west, creating stories he enjoyed sharing with his children about adventures he had. Upon his discharge from his military service, David briefly returned to Kansas, but soon left for California, to make it his home.

Settling in Covina, California, David met and married Gloria Roque, who had two sons, Brian Mason and Derek Mason. Together, they had three children: Zakarij, Alexis, and Ian. David's greatest joys were his family and his role as a grandfather.

He is survived by his son Zakarij Brazda and Roxanne Presley; grandsons Everett Stone Brazda and Phoenix Elliot Brazda; daughter Alexis Herrera and husband Bernardo Herrera, and grandson Eli Manuel Kohl Herrera; sisters Daisy Atteberry, Charlynn Truitt, Betty Grider, and Julia Gum; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Alvina Brazda; brother Bernard Brazda; and his son Ian Brazda.

David will be remembered for his dedication to family, his humor, and his gentle kindness. Soft-spoken and polite, he carried himself with grace and was always quick to forgive. His enduring love for those around him will be deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. A graveside service will be held at Mountain Meadows Memorial Park, 355 W. Round Valley Rd., Payson, AZ 85541, where David will be laid to rest beside his beloved son, Ian.