David Francis Arizu passed away peacefully of cancer on the morning of April 16th at home surrounded by family and friends. He recently celebrated his 80th birthday.
David was born in Oakland, the first child of Francisco and Betty Arizu. As the oldest brother, he was a leader and a family man from an early age. David would have graciously admitted that he was not the most studious child, but his strong work ethic and commitment could never be denied. His dedication to adventure and service began in the Boy Scouts, achieving rank of Eagle Scout, and later as a proud military leader. He was honored to serve two tours in Vietnam. His ability to bring levity to any situation was a unique characteristic. He would recount his time in Vietnam, telling stories of his mischievous pet monkey who played practical jokes on his troop by getting into the men’s shaving cream. David retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army.
While still in active service, David fathered two boys, David Thomas and Jeffrey Allan. His boys describe him as a no-nonsense father who raised them with a strong sense of responsibility, discipline, and loyalty. After the war, David returned to his Oakland roots, where he continued to fulfill the role of provider and family man. He married the love of his life, Ann, started his own printing company, and welcomed a daughter, Emily Lyle. His daughter fondly recalls him in a slightly different light than her brothers. While he was a pragmatic father, he was also quick to jest, participating in games of dress-up and creating tunes to make light of awkward life experiences. His daughter’s favorite memories were of early morning greasy breakfasts at local diners and secret trips to get doughnuts. David’s ability to balance a firm hand with a warm heart and dry wit made him a beloved father, not only to his three children but to many others along the way.
David had many passions throughout his life, including sailing, archery, flying small aircraft and helicopters, and being a connoisseur of local Vietnamese pho. His daily morning hot tub and two fingers of Jack in the evening were also at the top of his list. He was a humble but charming dancer, played the ukulele, and was a baby and dog whisperer. In fact, the family dog, Peaches, had her favorite spot nestled up next to him on his recliner. Upon their retirement, David and Ann found great happiness in RVing adventures visiting family and friends throughout the country.
In his final days David was surrounded by his community who shared memories of how his wisdom, humor, and generous spirit have touched their lives in countless ways. He was fair and diplomatic, calm and steady, accepting and open-minded, empathetic and honest, reliable and practical, understated but witty, and while not always a proper gentleman he was always a loving husband, a steadfast family man, and a true friend.
David leaves this world knowing that his family is safe, successful, and healthy. We could not be more proud of his life, love, and legacy. While he will be greatly missed, we can move forward knowing that he is at peace.
David is survived by his wife Ann, his three children, David, Jeff (Maria), and Emily, grandson Dimitri, brother Peter (Betsy), sister Noni Convery (Stuart), and beloved cousins, nieces and many others who considered him family. We will all continue to carry his spirit.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations in David’s name to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund or CaringBridge.
