David Earl Dezell

1930 - 2025

David Earl Dezell, 94, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025. He was born in Walla Walla, Washington and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a friend to all who knew and loved him, and was known for his intelligence, his success, and his quick wit.

David's lifetime achievements were many and varied. They started when he graduated from high school at 17 years old and then attended Santa Rosa JC where he played football and quickly earned his degree. He then attended University of California, Berkeley, where he also played football and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Fraternity. While at Berkeley, David took a 4 year leave to serve in the US Navy during the Korean War. He then returned to UC Berkeley and finished his education. David went to work for IBM and Shell Oil before settling on the job of Chief Investment Officer for Contra Costa County. He worked there until 1992 when he retired. David lived in Berkeley until 1970 when he moved to Napa and built his family's home. He became involved with the Napa Valley Country Club where he spent countless hours playing tennis and golf. David had many interests throughout his life, but sailing was his great passion. He loved the ocean and spent lots of time sailing the Bay with his friend Richard Decius. He also enjoyed the symphony, reading, and keeping up with the stock market. David had a great appreciation for the beauty of outdoors, and spent many years photographing whatever caught his eye.

David is survived by his children Martha Lynn Moore and Catherine Altamura. Other survivors include his sons-in-law Roger Moore and Peter Altamura, grandchildren Andrew Moore, Katherine and Blake Malugin, Annalisa, Peter David and Christianna Altamura, and great granddaughter Amelia Lynn Malugin. He was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Patricia Dezell who passed away in 1996 and by his wife of 23 years, Victoria who passed away on 2020. David outlived his entire family of origin and is the longest living member of the Dezell family in history.

A celebration of Life will be held at Tulocay Cemetery on Wednesday November 26th 2025 at 11:00am and all are welcome to attend.

The family would like to thank and recognize everyone at Hospice of San Joaquin. They made David comfortable and cared for him in every way possible. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95204.