David Arnold Schick

David Arnold Schick, age 85, of Milpitas, CA, passed away May 5, 2026 at his home. He was born May 2, 1941 in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Anne Marie (Luchinski) and Paul Thomas Schick. David spent most of his youth living with his 8 siblings in Lancaster, PA. David excelled at scholastics, was valedictorian in high school, and accepted at Notre Dame graduating with a degree in Geology thus forging a relationship with his beloved university throughout his life. He later earned a MS in Counseling at Auburn University.

David is survived by his brothers Jerry (Nancy), Robert, and many nieces and nephews all over the country. David is preceded in death by siblings Henry, Maryann, Greg, Dan, John, and Leo.

David enjoyed singing as well as tennis, racquetball, and handball sports throughout his early life. On graduating from Notre Dame he had an early calling to the priesthood and entered the Holy Cross seminary for foreign missions. During his formation he developed a love for helping the underprivileged and he transitioned from the seminary to a VISTA volunteer serving on Utah Indian reservations. David developed a talent for singing and performing in local stage productions or with church choirs. His varied career led him to jobs with the DIA in Washington, Math and Science teacher in Livermore Falls, Maine, counselor in high school programs or state agencies, and lastly the Water Works in Milpitas.

As a high school teacher in Maine, Dave took high school boys for trips to Florida beaches during the Christmas breaks staying at his brother John’s or other career friends. David gave these teenage boys an opportunity that they would never have had to travel outside of the state. His giving heart endeared him to every community he lived, whether it be Maine, D.C., Alabama, Florida, Utah, or California. Off work David could be found camping at National Parks, volunteering in community service, painting homes for friends, or giving free haircuts for his neighbors. David was active in his Catholic parishes running Bingo events, community gatherings, and baking for pot lucks with his neighbors.

In later years David was blessed with a best friend and house mate, Mark, who extended his years when mobility failed him. David will be remembered for time and talent to others no matter the cost, devotion to his Church, letters to friends and relatives that put him in many hearts forever, and Go IRISH!

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Milpitas, CA, June 3, 2026, 10 am, reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in David’s memory to St. Joseph Indian School, 1301 N. Main St., Chamberlain, SD 57325.