I knew Dave when we were classmates at Inland Valley Intermediate and later at Campolindo High School. Dave had an infectious smile and an even more infectious laugh. I never knew how accomplished a musician he was until many years later. As strange as it may sound one of the few kind gestures Dave made to me was as a new transplant to California from Virginia was when he said hello to me and offered me a piece of Super Bubble Bubble gum. That was the quintessential Dave. We both played football in our freshman year in high school, but our paths diverged as he continued with the sport and I chose long distance running. I’m sad that he died before his time, but reading about his life it’s certainly apparent he fit as much living into his 67 years as was possible. I’m sorry for the Graber family’s loss. Dave Graber made the world a better place, a happier place and one filled with music, laughter and love. May flights of angels take you to your rest David. You are missed. 

Here are some photos of Dave at Inland Valley Intermediate where we both middle schoolers

Dave is in the middle of this picture immediately behind the girl wearing glasses. 

I am sooooo sad to hear of David’s passing.

We met often when he worked at Cresents

Had many fun dinners together.

His warm heart, beautiful smile & wonderful sense of humor  will always be remembered & missed.

Rest in Peace David ..💔

I had the pleasure of first crossing paths with Dave during his high school years, a time when we were both under the tutelage of one of our local trumpet virtuosos. An instant kinship blossomed, and we soon found ourselves harmonizing our passions at his abode in Orinda, weaving musical duets that still resonate warmly in my memories.

Inevitably, life led us down divergent paths following our college years, with both of us embracing the world of business to fulfill our roles as primary providers for our respective families. Our connection languished in the sands of time, as often occurs in life's ever-quickening currents.

Fortuitously, a recent foray into the realm of social media, specifically Facebook, reignited the dormant embers of our friendship. In the wake of a few modest yet delightful exchanges, I was reminded that Dave was not merely an amiable soul, but one of the most affable individuals I have ever had the privilege of knowing.

Oh, how I would relish the opportunity to share a "cup of Joe" with him in one of his entrepreneurial ventures, to catch up on the symphony of life's endeavors that have unfolded since our last encounter.

Alas, it is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge his passing, and it is abundantly clear that his absence will be felt keenly by all of us who were graced by his presence. Dave, you will be sorely missed, and your memory shall resound in our hearts, an enduring testament to the kindness and warmth you brought to this world.

David and I were friends and shared some common bonds. First was our love for music which we played together in the Jazz Band, Orchestra and musicals. Next as fellow Jews we attended  Sunday school together and often snicked out of class to garb donuts. Sharon Strang was also one of our accomplices. We always had great conversations in high school and one things I remember about David was that he always had a smile on his face. The last time I saw him was many years ago when he came to San Diego and we got together and walked the beach in Mission Beach. He wanted to run the idea of opening a yogurt shop. Not knowing much about that business I couldn't provide much input. From what I've gathered he went on to open one along with a coffee location later. After reading some of the other posts I'm happy to hear that he continued his trumpet career and excelled. I had know idea but it gives me comfort in knowing that he carried that love of music through out his life like I do.   In a solemn note, John Pettibone and I just recently put on our 50 year high school reunion and it turns out that Dave passed away on the same night we were celebrating at  Metro in Lafayette, "Aug 5" followed by the next day with a tour of Campolindo.  I did feel some special magic when we went into the Jazz band room where we used to practice. It was like the walls were speaking to us and David was saying hello as warm thoughts of the hours spent there under the direction of Wally Steele.   R.I.P David, will always remember your fantastic horn

Graber Family,

I am so sorry for the loss of David. I didn’t know David but I saw his obituary and read what a wonderful person he was. The void he leaves is very great and in such a time of distress it’s hard to find comfort. Death has been an enemy to mankind for a very long time and it takes our most beloved ones. But I wanted to share with you that very soon our God Jehovah will rid us of death… 1 Corinthians 15:26 tells us “And the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.” God will rid us of death and along with this he will also give our beloved ones back to us. John 5:28,29 says “Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out. “We will be able to hold our loved ones again. May this promise help you and your family to find comfort and strength.

Dave and I were very good friends since our 4 years at the New England Conservatory. We were both aspiring trumpet players and students of Armando Ghitalla. I visited him a couple times in California after our graduation.  After I received a position in a German orchestra, where I still am, we kept in touch.  One theme of our countless discussions for over 40 years was how to achieve the perfect trumpet embouchure. Dave's continued motivation for striving to be the best trumpeter he could be was amazing. I will miss him.

May the joy and fun memories you shared carry you through this difficult time.

Josh Linehan, on behalf of Kris's Odyssey Power family