David Edward Kearney

June 29, 1985 – February 6, 2023

David Edward Kearney, 37, died suddenly on Monday, February 6, 2023, in Sherman Oaks, CA. David was born in West Los Angeles, California to Raymond and Carol (Cavanaugh) Kearney. David was living in Sherman Oaks, CA at the time of his death.

David was a 2003 graduate of Santa Monica High School and attended Santa Monica College, where he studied Recycling and Resource Management. He enjoyed working in numerous fields including the construction, entertainment, grocery, banking, and hospitality industries. He avidly pursued modeling and acting and on September 22, 2009, he was a popular and successful contestant on the game show Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader? and won $11,500.

More important than what David did is the way he was. His sisters describe him as an ocean-minded waterman with a heart of gold. He relished being outdoors surfing, boating, fishing, swimming and riding his bike everywhere he went. He had an intense love for his family and friends. He was an incredibly selfless man who lived to be alive with all his might. Leading with humility, Dave taught us that everyone is worthy of our love, attention, and empathy. He urged us to be worry free and take the time to make the call to check on each other.

David was charismatic, protective, resourceful, and creative. He gave so much more than he took and loved playing the goofy & silly guy to get others to laugh. He had adorable dimples and an irresistibly infectious smile. When he hugged you, he hugged you hard. He had a weightless vibe that everyone wished they had. He lived truly in the moment and was the first one to jump in the bouncy house at a kid’s party. He was irreplaceable and we will miss him forever.

He leaves behind his parents Raymond and Carol; his three sisters Rachael (Jack) Androski and their children, Jackson, Eddie, and Charlie; Michelle (Chris) Staffield and their children, Casey and Emma; and Jennifer (Diarmuid) Ryan and their children, Liam and Mae.

David’s family would like to thank Edgar and Maria of Maria’s Italian Kitchen in Sherman Oaks who quickly and compassionately came to David’s aid when he collapsed on the sidewalk in front of their restaurant. They called 911 and stayed with him until paramedics arrived.

A celebration of David’s life is being scheduled.

He shared a home with the love of his life, Jackie Jara. In honor of Dave’s memory, the family suggests in lieu of flowers donations be made to

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-jackie-in-honor-of-david-kearneys-memory

Please consider supporting Jackie through this fundraiser to help her during this difficult time of transition to cover many months of lost wages. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated.