David Longobardi 1938-2024 ….
David Longobardi 1938-2024
David comes from the Hebrew word “Beloved,” and David was just that. Kindness was always his first thought; he never had negative words to say about anyone. He was a devoted son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. David never missed mass on Sunday and lived his faith. He died peacefully at home on Oct. 24, 2024, at 86 years old.
David was born with his twin brother on Sept. 26,1938, in Poughkeepsie, New York. He was one of nine children: Lousie (Ralph) Walkoff, Pat (Bill) Chamuris, Joe (Betty) Longobardi, Pete (Betty) Longobardi, Vinny (Lonnie/Addie) Longobardi, Lill (Frank) Anothony, survived by Flo (Dick) Herrington Don (Gerri) Longobardi (twin).
Dave enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Pirmasens, Germany. When he returned home he graduated from Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie. He continued his education at Oklahoma State University earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
He married Donna Burton in 1964, who he met in Germany. Donna’s father was also stationed in Pirmasens. They met in a bowling alley, and it was love at first sight. David being from New York and Donna from Washington State, it took God to get them together. They were together for 65 years. Dave was the love of her life.
They moved to California and started a family. Their first child David was born in 1967. Cindy was born in 1969. Next, Joelle was born in 1970. Finally, Suzanne was born in 1977.
After living in Nothern California for three years, the family moved to Lancaster, California, where Dave became a professor at Antelope Valley College. He was a beloved teacher for 36 years, where he also coached baseball. After retirement, Dave and Donna moved to Leisure World in Seal Beach, California. David was an avid athlete. He and his twin brother were part of one of the first Little League teams in Poughkeepsie New York. Dave played basketball, baseball and bowling throughout his life in New York. After starting his family, he continued his love for sports by coaching his children’s teams. Golf was the sport he played until the end of his life.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Donna; son David (Concetta) Longobardi: Daughters Cindy Longobardi, Joelle (Don) Conner, Suzanne (Tavian) Bryant; and grandchildren, Brennen, Chantal, and Daisy.
The Celebration of Life for David will be Monday, Nov. 18, at 1 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Leisure World. Following the service, a reception will be held in Clubhouse 4.
