David Gordon Price

David Gordon Price was born on November 6, 1936 to Gordon and Vera Price in Whittier, CA. As a young boy he was active in many sports and activities. Dave attended Whittier High School. He completed undergraduate college and then received his master’s in education from CSULB.

Dave had a profound and lasting impact on the field of education. He established the Career Counseling Center at Corona del Mar High School, where he provided invaluable guidance and support to countless students. He later continued his dedication to teaching as a professor at Orange Coast College. Through his commitment to education and mentorship, Dave positively influenced the lives of many young people, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration, encouragement, and service.

Dave lived life with energy and curiosity. He loved the outdoors, traveling, and discovering new food and entertainment, and he was happiest when he was active. Whether surfing, skiing, lawn bowling, sailing, or simply spending time with friends, Dave embraced every moment. Above all, he had a deep love for sailing and the ocean, which reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for life.

Dave married Nancy Jo in 1968, and together they raised two daughters, Darci and Marni. The family made their home in Newport Beach, where they shared adventure and togetherness, enjoying trips to Catalina, Mammoth Mountain, Mexico, and beyond. Dave was deeply involved in his daughters’ lives—participating in swim team and lessons, coaching soccer, volunteering at scouts, and always being present at volleyball matches, theater productions, and musical performances. Dave and Nancy Jo were also an integral part of the boating community at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club. They were two of the club’s founding members.

In the late 70s Dave and Nancy Jo, along with their dear friends Reg and Sylvia Hasbach and Tom and Susy Purcell, partnered in the purchase of their Cal 2-30 sailboat, Tres Gordo. Together, Dave and his crew became highly respected and accomplished yachtsmen within the local sailing community. He skippered and raced in the Newport to Ensenada Regatta for more than 45 years and, along with his closest friends and mates, successfully completed the demanding Transpacific Yacht Race from Los Angeles to Hawaii. Over a

lifetime of sailing, Dave earned countless trophies and awards. While winning was never the sole focus, he undeniably loved to win.

In 1989 Dave met Ruth Colin - Price and her son, Carlos Ruiz. Dave and Ruth were married in 1992 and shared a beautiful life together for 33 years. They made their homes in Corona del Mar, California, and Punta Banda, Mexico (Casa Ballena), where they continued their active lifestyle—surrounded by friends and family, also enjoying life at their home away from home on Tres Gordo, at BCYC, and within the communities they cherished.

Dave was truly the life of any party, bringing joy and laughter wherever he went. He and Ruth shared a deep love of travel, exploring Europe, Hawaii, the Dominican Republic, Alaska, Mexico, many other destinations. They were always side by side, no matter where they were, and they embraced every adventure with enthusiasm and fun.

Dave took immense pride in watching their children—Darci, Marni, and Carlos—grow into accomplished adults, each building meaningful lives and careers. He was deeply proud of who they became and all that they achieved. Above all, Dave loved Ruth and his family tremendously. Dave and Ruth loved spending time with their children and extended family. When he wasn’t on the go, he found great joy in quiet moments at home with Ruth, watching a game, reading, and especially snuggling with their beloved fur babies.

Dave is survived by his loving family: his wife, Ruth; his daughters, Darci Price and Marni Sliker; his stepson, Carlos Ruiz and his wife Aimee Ruiz; and his cousin Susie Barrie and cousin Mike Peterson.