David Navarette Gonzales

He grew up in nearby Clifton, Arizona living there for more than 50 years. David was drafted into the United States Army in 1951 and fought in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged and returned home to Clifton upon completion of his military service. David married Lydia Mendoza in 1968 and started a family. He worked for the Phelps Dodge Corporation for 30 years. In 1983, David retired and moved to El Paso, Texas. In 1988, David relocated to Rio Rico, Arizona. David remained active in retirement as a dedicated father, watching his children grow into adulthood. He enjoyed woodworking projects and was an avid sports fan, especially proud of the University of Arizona Wildcats. David passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 23, 2024 at the age of 93. He was preceded in death by daughter, Adriana; parents, Leonardo and Martina; sister, Candelaria; brothers, Leonard, Joe, Martin, and Armando. David is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Lydia; daughters, Norma and Dalia (Steven); son, Carlos (Jennifer); grandchildren, Benjamin David, Katherine, and Daniel; sister, Mary; brothers, Maximo and Serapio, and many nieces and nephews.

A Vigil will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, 5150 N Valley View Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718 on September 6, 2024 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St Thomas on September 7, 2024 at 10:30 am. Burial immediately following Mass at East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery, 5801 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712.