David Alan Pate, age 78, a longtime resident of Santa Cruz County, died on January 28, 2025, in Santa Cruz, California, with his devoted daughter Michelle by his side.

The eldest son of Edwin and Marilynn (Pierce) Pate, David was born in late 1946 and grew up in a close-knit cul-de-sac in Castro Valley, California. He graduated from Hayward High School in 1964 and went on to attend Chabot College. David pursued a career as an industrial electrician, culminating his work at the San Lorenzo Valley Water District before retiring to the beach in Rio Del Mar.

Known for his friendly, cheerful, and laid-back demeanor, David was considered a local icon—he seemed to know everyone and always had a smile on his face. David believed in kindness, simplicity, and the healing power of nature.

David said he lived a “Vacation Life”—complete with a Leave It to Beaver childhood, a career in the mountains, and a home by the ocean. David learned to surf at Platforms Beach while still in high school. David found joy in nature—he surfed Pleasure Point, camped in the Sierra Nevada, and captured many moments through photography. He loved blues music concerts and had a keen interest in history and politics. In his later years, he would drive to the beach to photograph sunsets on his cell phone, sharing them with friends as small gifts of beauty.

He is survived by his brother Glenn Pate, sister Claire Blanchard, son Jacob Pate, daughter Michelle Pate, granddaughter Brittany Luther, and four great-grandchildren: Gaige, Jay, Grayson, and Joanalee. He also leaves behind many extended family members and cherished friends.

A Paddle-Out and Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 28 at 10:00 AM at Platforms Beach, located at the end of Beach Drive in Rio Del Mar. Please bring a beach chair, surfboard, flowers to scatter in the ocean, a dish to share, and your favorite memory of David. Contributions to David’s memorial fund may be sent through CashApp to Love Pate at $lovemybelle99

David’s spirit lives on in the waves, the sunsets, and the hearts of those who loved him. 

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/david-alan-pate/obituary/

Copy