David Bocanegra Peña

David Bocanegra Pena passed away on January 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and unwavering devotion to his family and country. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, David lived a life defined by integrity, humility, and quiet strength.

Born on June 30, 1940, in Bishop, Texas, David was the second of seven children born to Zenon Pena and Elizabeth Bocanegra. From an early age, he learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. As a young boy, he worked in agricultural fields to help support his family, experiences that shaped his strong work ethic and lifelong sense of responsibility.

David proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, completing 15 years of enlisted service followed by 38 years as a civilian employee. During his naval career, he served as a Radioman First Class and Dispatcher, assigned to several ships and submarines, including the USS Wahoo (SS 565) and the USS Midway (CV 41). He also served as an instructor to Navy and Air Force personnel while stationed in the Panama Canal Zone.

Throughout his service, David remained modest about his accomplishments. In time, his family came to learn that his dedication earned him numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, two Good Conduct Medals, Special Navy Professional Achievement Medal, Vietnam Defense Campaign Award, and Vietnam Operations Campaign Award. He also received a rare award from the United States Air Force for his work as an instructor—an exceptional distinction for a Navy serviceman.

In February 2024, David experienced one of the proudest moments of his life when he was honored during a pinning ceremony conducted by a fellow veteran aboard the USS Midway. The ceremony recognized his service and stood as a meaningful affirmation of his lifelong commitment to the Navy.

David’s career afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively, including throughout Central and South America, as well as to Vietnam, Japan, Panama, and Egypt. While he often spoke little of his travels due to the classified nature of his work, the discovery of photographs in later years offered his family a glimpse into the breadth of his experiences.

After retiring from active service, David continued working for the Navy as a civilian, serving as an Electronic Measurement Equipment Mechanic in the Avionics Division at the Naval Air Rework Facility on North Island Naval Base in Coronado, California.

David was married to his beloved wife, Martha, for 60 years. He was the devoted father of David, Rachel, Albert, and Elizabeth, and the proud grandfather of Tabitha, Daniel, Joseph, and Leah, each of whom brought him immense joy.

David enjoyed a wide range of interests. He was deeply committed to researching his family history, preserving records spanning several generations. He had a lifelong appreciation for music, having played the trumpet and cornet in his youth, and encouraged all four of his children to pursue musical instruments. He also enjoyed listening to Spanish hymns, watching golf, NASCAR, and college football—particularly Fresno State—along with fishing and gardening.

David took great pride in tending his garden, ensuring it was always filled with flowers for his wife, Martha. Even as she resided in memory care during her later years, he maintained their home and garden with constant care, a reflection of the enduring love they shared.

David is survived by his wife Martha; daughters Rachel Reid and Elizabeth Kimble; sons-in-law Daniel Reid and Terry Kimble; granddaughters Tabitha Hale and Leah Kimble; grandsons Daniel Pena and Joseph Kimble; brother Samuel Pena; and sisters Sara Santos and Magdalena Pereda.

David will be remembered for his honorable service, steadfast character, and deep love for his family. His life stands as a testament to commitment, sacrifice, and quiet dignity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service to honor David's life will be held at San Diego New Life Church, located at 730 Concepcion Avenue, Spring Valley, CA 91977. The service is scheduled for February 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Following the funeral service, a committal service will take place at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, from 1:15 pm to 1:45 pm on the same day.