David Yanez, a San Jose native, passed away peacefully at home on Monday April 22, 2024, at the age of 68 with his daughter by his side. He is survived by his son David (Monica), daughter Alexandra (Erik) Reynolds, sisters Marie Alvarado, Rose Bell & Irene Castro and brothers Robert & Jesse. David was a cherished and beloved grandfather "Papa" to Ariana, Logan, Ethan, Hayden & David. He was preceded in death by his wife Anna, father Gilberto, mother Juanita and brothers Gilbert & Richard.

Dad lived for his grandchildren, possibly in part because mom had passed when Ariana was just a few months old. Whether it was spoiling them with treats, trips to the store, toys or taking them to the park when they were young, or supporting them at their sporting events, giving them money, funding video game habits or buying them the coolest tech gear as they grew – he did it all! His presence can never be replaced.

Dad was also a green thumb; he loved to plant and tend to his garden in the backyard of his childhood home in San Jose. He grew various succulents and cactus, vegetables & flowers. Unfortunately, he did not pass on the green thumb gene to his children.

Whether you knew him as Dave, Davey, Little Brother, Uncle Dave or big Dave – to know him was to love him. He was always willing to help others in need. His signature look was a white JC Penny t-shirt, crisp Levi's 501 jeans, ballcap of choice, likely either SF Giants, 49ers, Warriors or Boston Red Sox and his shades with an ice-cold Budweiser in hand.

In May of 2023 David was diagnosed with B-Cell Lymphoma. Understanding the risks of treatment, he told his doctors he would rather die trying than not fight at all. He fought hard for 9 months before coming home on hospice in February to spend his remaining time surrounded by family at home. In his final days he enjoyed family dinners, walks outside in the sun, watching Price is Right, reading his newspapers, visiting with family, playing chess with his grandsons, and listening to his favorite music.

We pray that he was met at the gates of Heaven by his family preceded in death by him, including his dog Macho, and that he is free of pain and suffering and exactly how we wish to remember him.

A memorial mass will be held at St. Mary Parish in Gilroy on Friday May 3rd, 2024 at 10:00am. Private burial to follow at a later date.