In Memoriam : David Massey

David Massey David S. Massey - age: 57
(October 24, 1955 to July 10, 2013 )
Resident of Exeter, California

Visitation Information:
A Celebration of Life for Dave will be held 2:00pm Thursday, July 18 at Bubba’s BBQ in Visalia.

Obituary:
The answer to how to describe Dave would be: “E”, all of the above. He was a committed husband, loving stepdad, sharing son and brother, master of quick jokes, creative musician, enthusiastic handyman, wine & beer connoisseur, coupon king, event planner and travel agent extraordinaire. His 30+ year marriage to Paula was a mutual commitment to togetherness, celebration, discovery, and a wonderful shared journey for them both. The time he and his wife Paula spent together far outweighed the few moments they were apart, and this union stayed strong through their various careers and homes. They were married and settled in together, beginning in San Jose. Although he studied Art at San Jose State, he was lured into high tech employment working as a Materials Planner for Measurex Corporation. Growing weary of the Silicon Valley grind and wanting to be closer to family, he and Paula then moved to rural Valley Springs in the hills above Stockton. They eventually moved to Exeter, staying true to his strong ties to family who had previously moved to the area.



Stepson Sean grew up receiving love and support from Dave, resulting in a communal desire to remain in each others’ lives as Sean’s own family grew. His proximity to sister Gina, allowed them to stay in touch and follow her sons’ paths to maturity. He was always close to brother Steve, as the two were never out of touch for long. They shared thoughts, opinions and ideas about music, sports and beverages constantly, sometimes to the dismay of those who weren’t on their unique wavelength. His love of life was especially evident in his and Paula’s treks with father Rolland and mother Greta. The foursome travelled the world, enjoying trips ranging from cruising the high seas and visiting all the ports of call to tempting chance and luck at casinos. He loved researching and arranging the many details it took to make the travels enjoyable for everyone. Dave would search high and low to make sure he got the best deals on everything, whether it was a hotel stay or a grocery item. This also applied to Happy Hours, which were regarded as opportunities for family to gather so everyone could laugh and share their goings-on. Dave was appreciated and loved by all who knew him. Although he will live on through his generous designation as organ donor, the world will be an emptier place without Dave’s spark and “joie de vivre”.








Shoni Jolley - July 12, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
Uncle Dave was the best uncle anyone could have. all his jokes and pranks and fun games were always a joy to be around. my last memory I have is when he came to my high school graduation it was such a great time seeing my favorite aunt Paula and favorite uncle Dave. they both have done so much for me and I will always appreciate it forever



Toni and David Lenz - July 14, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
Toni and I have known David and Paula since we moved into the mobile park. David has been a real good friend to us. He was there if we needed help and always had a good thing to say about others. Toni and I will miss him. He was the type of person that left a good impression on you. Dave, I know that where you are right now is going to be one Big Cruise. We will miss you and always keep you in our hearts. I have to add something here, Dave and I had a secret.... everyday, when he rode his his bike around the park, we had our own greeting to each other...HEYUGH!! My David always ask What on earth was that noise? And I'm sure he's doing the same in Heaven, only with the Angels! Go Big Guy!! Heyugh!



Jolley Family - July 14, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
My comments cannot convey the sadness in my heart when Dave unexpectedly passed. Dave always treated me with kindness and respect, even when I would challenge him when I was a young boy. Beginning on July 11th, I've started each day with a nod to the sky and a smile knowing that I was part of Dave's life and he was part of mine. I will continue this ritual every morning to ensure I never have a day without thinking about Dave.



Jolley Family - July 15, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
I called Dave Daybee. I will miss you.



Jolley Family - July 15, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
I learned some things about Dave that I didn’t know, l knew he loved music, and he was a musician, and when I saw the picture of him when he was 21 playing the guitar, it brought a smile to my face. He was one of those cool musicians. Paula showed us a picture that he drew, he was also a talented artist, but it doesn’t stop there, he also need nail art, and it was pretty impressive. He was all those things, and more. Paula and Dave had that soul mate relationship, one that was strong til his death, and will remain in Paula’s heart forever, a love that all that knew them could see. He was a great father to Sean, but more than that they were friends. He would play with Hayden, show her magic tricks, play games, spending quality time with her during their visits, he was involved. To me he always had a smile on his face, always asked if I needed anything, and was very thoughtful. He was a kind giving person that will be missed, but when you think about your experiences with him, will always bring a smile to your face. Dave will always been in hearts.



Justin Major - July 15, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
My Uncle Dave. A real class act. It was an honor and a privilege to know him. While I will always remember him as a "CAT" man (Kirby)- my fondest memories are that of family camping trips. Uncle Dave and Aunt Paula always had the "good stuff" and by that I mean the treats and snacks!! Uncle Dave always had such a positive outlook on so many things I never knew when to take him seriously. As man of many talents and such success, he would never forget to stop and talk about the simple things in life like family or of course how best to manage the Niners and or the Giants. He was a magnificent man who I will always remember and appreciate. He would always go out of his way to talk to me everytime the family would get together and would show genuine interest in things I enjoyed. He helped make me who I am by being supportive of all my endeavors and I shall do the same.. Until we meet again Uncle Dave....... "I Love you and will always remember" Justin



Victoria Ellis - July 15, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
I haven't been part of the family for long, but Dave always had a smile and a welcoming word for me, just had this way of making you feel welcomed. He had good stories to listen to and great jokes to hear and I am so sorry that was taken from you. I know these words won't help but I hope they'll help you remember him.



Justin Major - July 17, 2013Contact this person Contact this person
My brother Dave was such a unique person.There was always a smile on my face when I was around him because of his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor.He was one of the most caring and loving people I've ever known.The times we spent together cruising,traveling,camping or just getting together as a family, is forever etched in my heart.Our world was a much better place with him in it.He will be missed more than any words could possibly express. My heart is BROKEN!!!I will miss you forever...I will love you forever...Gina



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David Massey photo

David Massey photo

David Massey photo