David Dale McNary
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David's obituary
David Dale McNary, age 73, of Palmdale, California, passed away peacefully at home on March 13, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with esophageal cancer.
Born on November 21, 1952, in Los Angeles, David was adopted by Dale and Imogene McNary. He grew up in Los Angeles, where his spirituality and faith in Jesus Christ was nurtured at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. Driven by a lifelong quest for knowledge, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UCLA ranking in the top 2% of his class, then continued for a Juris Doctorate from Southwestern Law School. David also earned a Masters of Public Administration and Policy, at University of Southern California, Price School of Public Policy, where he was Valedictorian, Class Editor, and was granted a Thesis Honors "Special Award for Excellence" in Public Policy research.
David was an independent, critical thinker and lifelong student. He loved beauty, photography, music, logic, reason, and held a deep, abiding faith that fueled his positive life force and inspired others to be their best. He was also a celebrant who created and officiated personalized ceremonies that honored individual values, beliefs, and life milestones.
He lived a life marked by resilience, kindness, and an unshakeable belief in God’s healing power. He faced his illness with grace and determination, inspiring everyone who knew him. David was a nurturer and protector of loved ones, reflecting deeply on the complexities of our social fabric and contemporary influences. Above all, he cherished his relationships and the simple joys of life.
David’s colorful career spanned wide-ranging experiences, including work in the Appellate courts and investment banking. He worked for Dean Witter, was Vice President - Investments at Prudential-Basche and Thompson McKenna; and, later developed master’s degree programs for distance learning.
He is survived by his devoted friend and companion Luanne Crawford and her daughters whom he helped to raise, Heather Valle, and Hillary Babanian and their growing families; his brother Bryce McNary and wife Joan of Somis; and nephew Joshua and family. David was preceded in death by Dale and Imogene McNary, to whom he remained devoted until their passing.
A celebration of life service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood in Wylie Chapel on April 11, 2026, at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to the UCLA Robert G. Kardashian Center for Esophageal Health (https://www.uclahealth.org/me…) to advance research, refine existing therapies, and develop innovative new treatments. Gifts of all sizes are welcome and greatly appreciated.
David’s spirit, faith, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Psalm 31: 24 Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.”
Memorial Video Below:
https://vimeo.com/1181459543/…
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