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BORN
1932
DIED
2020
David Fite Obituary
David Bruce Fite passed from this life into the next on April 18, 2020, at his home in Sacramento, Calif., at the age of 88. He was born April 7, 1932, in Paris.
Bruce's passion for flying led him to Texas in 1956, where he met and married his wife, Darlyne Franke. He was a fighter pilot for the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956-59 in the Third Marine Air Wing VMF 311. Those who served with him, and especially those who flew with him, forged bonds that lasted throughout his life. The stories, recounted through the years, of those days and those men and those adventures are epic. The friendships they shared were "Semper Fi," a phrase his family will always associate with him.
In 1968, Bruce moved his family from Arkansas to California and joined forces with some of Sacramento's most prominent businessmen. He went on to found Fite Development Co, which just reached it's 50-year anniversary, under the leadership of Bruce's son, Chet Fite. Bruce's wife also worked in the business alongside both men for many years, helping to develop the company into the success that it is today.
Bruce will be remembered as a daring pilot, a driving force, a successful businessman and a generous benefactor to many. He was a man who lived life on his own terms, always striving for the highest standards. He was also a man whose faith in God was what he most desired to pass on to his family and those he loved. It is because of that faith he is now reunited to his parents, Charles and Hazel Fite, and in the presence of the One who protected him through many close calls in this life and has now welcomed him into new and infinitely more exciting adventures.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Darlyne I. Fite; three children, Charles David Fite (Cara), Sharon Mayfield (Randy) and Teresa Barry; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Barbara Hardcastle.
Celebration of Bruce's life will be held at a later date. Interment services are being provided by Mount Vernon Memorial Park and Mortuary in Sacramento.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Fite
Doug and Nancy Van Howd
May 9, 2020
Bruce was always ready to go on safari and went with us too many times to count. He loved it! One of our favorite memories of him on safari was the day on the Serengeti when a cheetah decided to climb up on his car to use it as a vantage point. Bwana Bruce was his name in Africa. He always had the drivers gathered around showing them the photos of the day on his laptop. They all remember his generosity and are sad at his passing. Many of them are Christians and they know they will see him again.
Doug and Nancy Van Howd
May 8, 2020
Bruce was everything his obituary described and much more. He was a faithful best friend, brother and Uncle Bruce to our daughter Holly. We loved him dearly and will miss him greatly. I'm quite sure he is already helping Jesus prepare the way for the rest of us, and we will all be together in God's presence one day.
Marvel Wilson
May 5, 2020
Cameron and I knew Bruce since our Bible college days. We have always enjoyed his sense of humor and fun, as well as his faithful, generous spirit. I remember his teasing us as Cam and I were deciding to get married while on a choir tour. And in more recent years he and Darlyne went with us for a European river cruise. How we will miss him!!!
Bill & Holly Thomasson
April 28, 2020
We deeply love our Uncle Bruce and will always cherish our memories! Looking forward to being reunited in Heaven.. he better save us some wine. XXOO
Randy Mayfield
April 27, 2020
Love and blessings to a wonderful family and may God give you his peace and comfort. Bruce was a great Father in Law and he will be missed. - Randy
Rico Morotti
April 24, 2020
Bruce It was a pleasure knowing you and thank you for always being a great business leader and a friend to our business. You were a testament to all of your family and friends and will be missed... My condolences to your family.. Love always
Barbara Thayer Clements
April 24, 2020
so sorry to hear of Bruce's death. May our precious Holy Spirit comfort all of you at this time.
I have loved your family for a long time.
Sending much Love Chet, Sharon and Teresa.
Barbara Thayer Clements
Melody Gentry Stanley
April 23, 2020
We love you all and are praying for you. Psalms 116:15
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