David Michael Nugent

A trim, distinguished looking man with a full-head of silver-white hair and a soft spoken, meticulous manner, rooted in his Irish-Catholic Boston upbringing, David chose to become a trial attorney, with his brother’s law firm where he became a partner. He specialized in defending members of the medical profession and was invited to act as Counsel for a distinguished group of San Diego physicians. His trial record was unblemished. It was not uncommon for David to be invited to speak to students and medical groups where he reminded them how fortunate they were to have been given a gift by God, the gift to heal. He was very grateful for the treatment he received from those who cared for him during his journey with cancer.

David attended prep school at Penn Charter and then went on to attend the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania where he Captained the University’s 150 lb. football team.

He served two years as an officer in the U.S. Army in Korea and Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for exceptional service.

David has lived in Rancho Santa Fe with his wife Karen for 34 years. Together they enjoyed trips to their favorite vacation spot in Maui. Trips to San Francisco with a stopover in Napa Valley was a close second.

He loved sports and being outdoors. His favorite run was at the beach in Del Mar. He enjoyed skiing, jogging and a good workout. David always took pleasure in a quiet evening reading a good book, in front of a roaring fire.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Karen, his brother The Honorable Thomas P Nugent (Ret.), and the many nieces and nephews that all affectionately called him, “Unkie”. That was a moniker he most enjoyed, as he loved children.

David’s philosophy: “If you are honest in your personal and professional life and act with integrity in both, you will be successful in achieving your goal.” David was indeed a wonderful man admired and loved by all that knew him. He will be dearly missed by his devoted wife, his treasured family and his many friends.

Memories of David will be the timeless gifts in the hearts of those that loved him.

Services will be at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Del Mar at 2 pm on May 30,2025.

On behalf of the family and with a wish for a cure, please consider in lieu of flowers a donation directed to cancer research:

https://www.salk.edu/science/research-centers/salk-cancer-center/donate/