David Bruno Scatena

1941 - 2025

David Bruno Scatena, 83, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, in Palo Alto, California, surrounded by loving family. Born on June 13, 1941, in San Francisco, David's life was defined by an unwavering devotion to family, a passion for his profession, and a love for the pleasures of travel, good food, fine wine, and golf.

David pursued his education with drive and distinction, studying at both the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of San Francisco, before earning his Master's degree in Taxation from Golden Gate University. These academic pursuits laid the foundation for a successful and deeply fulfilling career as a Certified Public Accountant.  As a founding partner of what is now Polly, Scatena, Vasheresse & Sater, David built a reputation for exceptional expertise in accounting and tax strategy. Over more than 50 years, he served his clients with loyalty, integrity, and care, many of whom became lifelong friends. For David, being a CPA was never just a job, but a true calling. He often remarked that he wouldn't have changed a thing about his professional journey.

Outside the office, David found joy on the golf course. A passionate player for most of his life, he traveled the world playing the game he loved. In January 2025, while in Hawaii, he proudly achieved the rare milestone of shooting his age, an accomplishment that brought him great pride. While he enjoyed courses across the globe, his most cherished rounds were at Sharon Heights and Winchester Country Clubs, where he shared the game with family, friends, and business colleagues alike.

Travel was another great love of David's, particularly his adventures through Italy with his beloved wife,JoAnne. Among many treasured trips, a month-long family stay in Florence stands out as a favorite: a gathering with all his children and grandchildren filled with laughter and unforgettable memories.

A devoted fan of the 49ers, Giants, Warriors, and Cal Bears, David watched every game with heart, and often a dose of comic pessimism. If things weren't going well, his familiar refrain, "Turn out the lights," would echo throughout the room, sometimes as early as the first quarter/inning! But when his teams triumphed, no one smiled wider.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, JoAnne Scatena; his daughters Caroline Scatena Donaldson (John), Jeanine Roberson, and Nicole McGovern (Justin); his grandchildren Brianna Roberson, Tyler Donaldson, Rachelle Roberson, Mila McGovern, and Everly McGovern; and his mother-in-law, Ann Addiego. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruno and Myrtle Scatena, and his sister, Geraldine Bond, and her husband, Steve.

David's legacy is one of strong character, loyalty, generosity, and a deep appreciation for the moments that truly matter; on the fairway, around the dinner table, and in the company of those he loved most. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MPN Research Foundation.  A celebration of life to honor David is being planned for early August, details to follow.