Tributes

David Paul Distefano passed away on Friday, March 13th, surrounded by his loving family. Born June 12th 1952, in Santa Clara, California, David had an incredible zest for life from the very beginning. This exuberance sometimes got him in trouble with the nuns in school, but he hit his stride academically after high school, earning a bachelor’s degree in business from California State University, Stanislaus and a master’s degree in special education from California State University, Bakersfield. For 23 years, David taught moderately to severely disabled middle schoolers in Delano, California. He was committed to children with special needs because they were motivated to try their best every day; he was also passionate about building strong relationships with their family members to create a whole team of support for his students. Outside of the classroom, David was known for his love of Pink Floyd, physics, and the natural world. His nature photography rivaled that of Ansel Adams and was one of his greatest passions. From Yosemite to Acadia, he visited 35 National Parks, often spending hours setting up for a perfect waterfall shot as his antsy children waited to hike back to the tent to play cards. That patience was worth it, as anyone who’s seen the dozens of beautiful compositions lining the walls of the Distefano home will attest. David leaves behind his wife, Laurie Distefano – the love of his life, travel companion, and best friend – and his two children, Zachary Distefano (Lindsey) and Rebecca Distefano, and stepson, Chris Welch (Jen). He was the most caring father, who instilled in his children a love of learning, nature, and good music. David was also an amazing grandfather to his six grandchildren: Laura, Alex, Christopher, P.J., Alaynea, and Robert. Although he did not have a chance to meet his newest grandson, Ethan, they would have been two peas in a pod. He will be truly missed by his mother, Kerstin Bucholtz, and siblings, Karin Gregg (Roy Arruabarrena), Therese Mohr (Paul), and Christopher Distefano (Diane). In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the National Park Foundation at https://donate.nationalparks.org/page/23790/donate/1?chain Private Services

Tributes

David P. Distefano

June 12, 1952 - March 13, 2020