David Joseph McGovert

David Joseph McGovert, 91, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. A lifelong resident of San Jose, David was a devoted son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He worked for many years as a general contractor and small business owner, taking pride in his craft and his dedication to the community.

David was born on May 9, 1934, to Adolfo McGovert Sr. and Eduarda “Cardona” McGovert in San Jose, California. In 1959, he married his former wife, Lorraine Dushey, in San Jose, and together they raised six children. In 1982, David married his late wife, Gloria Talent, in Hawaii, and they remained together until her passing in 2015.

Throughout his prosperous life, David accomplished many things. He earned his high school diploma from San Jose High School and later obtained an associate degree in building construction from De Anza Community College. David also served honorably in the United States Army as an Armor Intelligence Specialist, supporting armored and cavalry units with intelligence during the Cold War. His service was marked by dedication and discipline, earning him the Good Conduct Medal and recognition as a Sharpshooter.

David had many hobbies, but some of his favorites included dancing, waterskiing on his boat, camping, and working on his ranch.

Throughout his time here on Earth, David’s presence touched many lives. He was a strong-willed man who left a lasting impression on the people he loved most and helped shape them into better versions of themselves. He taught his family and friends about resilience, often sharing life lessons through literal and metaphorical examples, such as building a home from foundation to rooftop, and he consistently demonstrated strength, perseverance, and tenacity. David was deeply loved by his family and friends, remained a devoted family man throughout his life, and loved them just as deeply in return. They will forever be grateful for the memories he shared with them.

David is survived by his children and their families: Cindy and Rick Martinez; Susan and Robert Garretson; Valerie and Phillip McHenry; Davey McGovert; Bambi Markham; Derrick Markham; and his step-children and their families: Kathy Talent; Kim and John Taylor; and Kristy and Joe Salinas; his sister, Mary Lou Nelson; 20 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Talent McGovert; his parents, Adolfo McGovert Sr. and Eduarda McGovert; and his siblings, Henry McGovert, Adolfo McGovert Jr., Albert McGovert, Robert McGovert, and Sandra McGovert.

A viewing will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on January 24, 2026, at Lima Family Funeral Home, 466 North Winchester Boulevard, Santa Clara, California 95050. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will take place at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A reception will be held following the services at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club, 23600 McKean Road, San Jose, California 95141. His legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.