David D. Vasquez

David Vasquez, was born on October 3, 1952, at his family's home in Delano, California, to Mary and Lucio Vasquez. In 1960, he moved to San Jose with family, attending Gardner, Burbank, and Washington Elementary schools, followed by Woodrow Wilson Junior High. At the age of 13 until age 18 he would go back to Delano every summer with his Dad to work in the fields picking watermelons. He was a proud graduate of Overfelt High School (class of 1970), where he was a dominant varsity pitcher and was even voted 'Best Looking senior’. But while that title was a highlight, his greatest win came in 1971 when he met the true love of his life, my mother, Theresa. Together, they spent over 50 years building the incredible foundation our family stands on today.

After high school, David continued his academic and baseball career at San Jose City College. He was a standout pitcher there, which earned him an opportunity to play for San Jose State University. However, he chose a different path of service instead. He honored his commitment to his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, serving with honor from 1972 to 1977. During his time in the Marines, he served as an Administrative Chief and a Military Policeman—roles that would eventually set the stage for his lifelong career in law enforcement.

In 1977, my dad began his career in law enforcement with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office. Over 26 years of dedicated service, he did it all—serving as a patrol deputy, a member of the SWAT Team, an Academy Training Officer, and a Field Training Officer. In 1988, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and in 1996, he transitioned to the Department of Corrections as a Lieutenant. He took on some of the most demanding leadership roles in the department, serving as the Commander of the Internal Affairs Division and a Watch Commander at the Main Jail before his well-earned retirement in 2003.

Above all, David was a devoted husband. He met the love of his life, my mother Theresa, on his 19th birthday, and as they say, the rest was history. They married on May 3, 1975, making today their 51st wedding anniversary. Their marriage was the heart of our family; a testament to a lifetime of love, loyalty, and partnership. David was defined by his devotion to Theresa; as true soulmates, they were inseparable. Their love for each other was on full display until David’s final days.

David was the proud father of three children: Davina, Theresa (known as Whoozie), and Joseph. As the steady anchor of our family, his love was felt more in his actions than in his words. A natural provider, he worked tirelessly to care for my mother and all of us, ensuring we had the opportunities he wished he’d had growing up.

David built a foundation of true security. He never let us fall, but if we did, he was always there to pick us back up. He wasn't just a provider; he stood as a physical and emotional rock between his loved ones and the world’s hardships. David was our fierce protector, possessing an unyielding instinct that made one thing clear: if you stood against his family, you stood against him.

David was a devoted and loving grandfather and great grandfather (AKA Big Papa). He adored his five grandkids and three great-grandkids, “my babies” as he affectionately called them. I will never forget the depth of that love; the way he would walk into a room and make a point to give each one a hug and a kiss on the forehead. He made it a priority to show up for every event, always ready to help. To him, being there for his grandkids wasn't just a duty, it was his greatest joy.

David’s happiest moments were those spent surrounded by his wife, kids, and grandkids. Above all, he valued our time together; to him, nothing was more precious than having his family in one place. Whether it was a holiday or a quiet afternoon, his heart was full as long as we were by his side.

David lived an amazing life. He accomplished so much, but more importantly, he left a legacy and an impact on our lives that will never be forgotten. He was the definition of a true husband, father, and grandfather—a man who can never be replaced, and whose memory will live on in us forever.

To my dad: thank you for your lifetime of service—for loving, protecting, and caring for my mother, my sisters, and our family. The watch is over. Rest easy, Dad. I’ll take it from here.