Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1957

DIED

2017

David Schlessinger Obituary

David Warren "Martin" Schlessinger

David Warren "Martin" Schlessinger, age 59, passed away unexpectedly at home April 27, 2017 in San Francisco.

David was born to Paul and Sook (Kim) Schlessinger on August 12, 1957 in Houston, Texas. He graduated Jefferson High School in Bloomington, Minnesota and went to Crown College in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota where he studied liberal arts. After college, he pursued his musical interests in Boston, London, and San Francisco.

His favorite childhood memory was drawing and science fair projects. At a young age, he learned to play the cello, then played drums for various bands. He continued to play the guitar and was a music instructor. David also loved photography, collected vintage eyeglasses, and could play over 150 Beatles songs.

He is survived by his sister, Gail (and husband Dennis), Aunt, Judy, and very special friend, Diana Penasa. He was a friend to many, who will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, Daniel and Ruth (Smith) Schlessinger.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from May 16 to May 21, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for David Schlessinger

Not sure what to say?





Judith Johnson Elavsky

February 2, 2023

Oh I'm so sorry to see David has passed on. I knew him form Bloomington as his family lived on the same street for awhile. He was friends with my brother. He was so very nice and kind and had the best infectious laugh. My condolences to you all, I'm sure you miss him so!

May 25, 2017

Gail our deepest sympathy, we honestly still can't process David passing away. He will truly be missed and we will always remember his great smile:)
Sylvia and Raquel
The Smile Center
his dental office

May 21, 2017

Martain was a nice polite man to talk with...When I went o Cat Club he would all ways shake my hand and we would have a conversation for a while.

Strangelove at Cat Club, April 5, 2013

Steph Tember

May 20, 2017

I had noticed Martin for years at the SF nightclubs. I finally went up to him in 2012 or 2013 and told him he was an anchor to my reality - that I always expected to see him, and that if a day came when he were no longer visible, then something was horribly wrong in the fabric of reality.
Martin told me it was the nicest thing anyone had said to him, and we became friends.
Oh Martin, something is horribly wrong in the universe... you are no longer here. I miss your presence.

Tal

May 19, 2017

Kristine & Tal

May 19, 2017

Martin was like a big brother to me and a dear friend to Tal. We hung out, corresponded through email and called each other talking extensively about music, movies and art. He always offered his seat to me when I was in a lot of pain and couldn't walk or stand for very long. We always gave him rides home after the clubs talking about his favorite movies Valley Girl and Pierce Brosnan as James Bond which he would watch over and over. "I watched Valley Girl again today! It's my favorite movie!" "I know Martin, it's one of mine too!" And of course comparing our Joy Division tshirts. Martin, we miss you dearly.

Bheti A

May 18, 2017

I met Martin in the late 90s at the SF clubs. He was such a fixture that I always looked forward to seeing him while I was out. He was such a nice guy, truely nice and fun to talk to. I regret that I didn't get to see him since I came back to the area.
I have so many funny memories of him.
RIP Martin! I will miss you.

Betsey Low

May 17, 2017

RIP, Martin!
You were a part of the Lower Haight community in my twenties. I looked forward to running into you on the streets, parties and our times spent together when I cut your hair. Thank you. You are missed.

Steve Indig

May 17, 2017

Martin was well known and very well liked in the San Francisco nightlife community. We are all saddened at his passing, but very glad to have spent time with him.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Make a Donation
in David Schlessinger's name

Memorial Events
for David Schlessinger

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support David's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor David Schlessinger's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more