In loving memory of David Martinez Valdez who passed away on October 22nd 2026. David was able to celebrate his 96th birthday surrounded by loved ones only 6 days before he passed. His joy and delight in his family was evident to the end.

David was born in Martinitos, Nuevo Leon, Mexico and moved to the U.S. as a young man. He met and married Marlene Ramirez in Selma where they spent all of their lives. Together they raised 5 children: David Jr., Paula, Patti, Janice, and Jim.

David retired as a fork lift driver from Valley Fig Growers in 1992. He was then able to travel with Marlene. They visited France and Italy with their son David and rediscovered their places of heritage in Nuevo Leon and Guanajuato, Mexico. Their favorite place closer to home was the central coast.

David enjoyed his home. He loved being in his yard and growing nuts, fruits, and vegetables that he could then bring inside and “show and tell.” He found pleasure in making his grandchildren fresh squeezed orange juice from his own trees. In his later years, he enjoyed just sitting outside in his front yard greeting neighbors and friends who happened to pass by.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene Valdez, his sons David Valdez, Jim Valdez (partner Mandy); his daughters, Paula Schiefer (husband Carl); Patti Gutierrez (husband Daniel); Janice O’Donnell (husband Matthew) and his niece Doris Zavala.

He has left a legacy of love, hard work, and strong family ties to his children and their spouses, 8 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.