Dave's obituary
David Eugene Beesley
April 22, 1966 – March 22, 2022
A Clamper has fallen. David Beesley was a proud member of the Joaquin Murrieta chapter (#13) of the Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus Vitus. He is remembered as an adventurer, loyal friend, and an avid sports fan who was rarely seen without some sort of San Francisco 49ers regalia. Dave died peacefully on March 22, 2022, after a short, but rough battle with cirrhosis. He was one month shy of his 56th birthday.
Dave was born from the union of Neal Beesley and Donna Tover. Dave spent his childhood growing up (and causing trouble) in Lafayette and Walnut Creek, California. He was the youngest of three siblings. On September 6, 1992, Dave married his devoted partner, Sandra, in Walnut Creek. Four years later, the couple moved from San Francisco to Alameda to raise their daughter.
Dave was a union electrician with the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Local 595 for more than 25 years. He retired from his role with the City of Berkeley in April 2021, then moved to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi to enjoy retirement.
Dave never took himself too seriously. His irreverent sense of humor and easy-going spirit made him many friends. He always knew how to make people laugh, and there was never a dull moment when he was around.
On April 6, 2014, Dave was sworn in, alongside many dear friends, to the Oakland/Bay Area chapter of E Clampus Vitus. Many people believe the Clampers are just a drinking club that requires its members to take part in wild initiation ceremonies – which is true. However, the club also works to preserve the heritage of the American West.
Dave and his fellow Clamper friends enjoyed getting together, drinking, and occasionally going on a large group camping trip in Northern California/Sierra Nevada. He also enjoyed working on his Jeep and then taking it out to the mountains to off-road.
Dave was an adventurer who loved travelling and trying new foods. He admired the work of the late nomadic chef Anthony Bourdain and wished to see more of the world after retiring. New Orleans, Louisiana was Dave’s favorite destination. He travelled there a few years ago and watched his beloved 49ers play the Saints at the Superdome. Dave was a devoted fan. He collected signed jerseys and even held on to old newspaper clippings from the 80s and 90s.
Dave will not be forgotten. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Sandra Beesley, and their daughter, Casandra Beesley. He leaves behind his older sister Heather Beesley, older brother Donald Beesley, and many friends/fellow Clampers.
Dave is predeceased by his parents, Neal Beesley and Donna Tover.