David George Guzzetta, 74, of Glendale, Arizona passed away on February 6, 2020. Born December 16, 1945, in Buffalo, New York, he moved with his family to Phoenix in 1959. David graduated from Washington High School in 1963 and went on to play basketball for Glendale Community College before joining the Marine Corps Reserves in 1966 where he served for six years. He met the love of his life at a party given by a close friend. In April 1967, David married Phyllis Ann Herman in Phoenix, Arizona.
David achieved the rank of Sergeant while serving in the Marines from March 1966 to March 1972. He continued a life of service when he became a Phoenix Police Officer/Detective. He served his community from April 1967 to November 1995.
After graduating from the police academy, David was assigned to the Patrol Bureau and later to Narcotics. He became the first, true “dirty” undercover narc, (sporting long hair, a beard, and the nickname “Wolfman” to go along with them). He was so successful that he was nominated for Police Officer of the Year by the American Legion. David’s work ethic and professional demeanor earned him an assignment to the Intelligence Bureau where he worked traditional organized crime (Mafia).
With his partner, Dick Hogue, they investigated area biker gangs, focusing on gang leaders and serious property crimes. Together, they enlisted the help of local police departments and formed the statewide Biker Enforcement Team (BET). Eventually, David and Dick were invited to join The State Task Force, with the FBI and ATF in investigating all forms of crime. As a result of their work using wiretaps, the partners received several commendations from State and Federal Agencies.
While still full time at the Phoenix Police Department, David also began working at American Park ‘N Swap in security. He eventually became the head of the department before moving to the Admission Supervisor position. Once he retired from the Police Department, he assumed the Director of Operations position. After retiring from Park ‘N Swap he also enjoyed working as Vault Room Manager at Camelback Ranch Ballpark during MLB Spring Training.
David was an adoring husband and father dedicated to supporting his family in all ways. He loved sports, playing on several police teams and coaching his daughters’ softball teams whenever possible. The Yankees were his favorite baseball team, but he could be found watching most any sport with a ball. He will be dearly missed and remembered by his family and countless friends.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Phyllis Ann (Herman) Guzzetta; their three daughters, Jennifer Hatfield (Bob), Tricia Guzzetta (Dave), and Cara Gulvin (Seth); their grandchildren, Jake Hatfield, Cason Hatfield, Nathan Hatfield, Maggie Gulvin, and Lucy Gulvin; his mother, Florence (Turoldo) Guzzetta; his brothers, Richard (Janie) Guzzetta and Gary Guzzetta; brothers and sisters-in-law, James Herman Junior (Diana), Lawrence Herman (Linda), Marian (Herman) Bloom (Roger), and Steve Herman (Julie); as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and godchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, Louis J. Guzzetta.
Memorials may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation or the 100 Club of Arizona.
