David Louis Vaca
August 24, 1935 – May 30, 2023
Fair Oaks, California – David Louis Vaca passed away peacefully in Fair Oaks on May 30, 2023 at the age of 87. The oldest of John and Ruth Vaca’s six children, Dave was born in Gridley, California. He is survived by sisters Rowena Vaca and Patsy Woodward, brother Roger Vaca, and was preceded in death by brother John Vaca and sister Judy Vaca.
Upon graduating from Gridley High School, Dave attended Yuba College, where he met the love of his life, Tomella (“Tommie”) Russell. Dave would frequently join Tommie, mother Kate, and sisters Lenore, Mary, Nada, and Dora for Sunday dinners.
Dave and Tommie graduated from Chico State College in 1957 and married on August 25, 1957. They moved to the Sacramento area and began teaching in the Rio Linda Union School District. In the 1960s sons Jeff, Andrew, and Patrick were born. Dave served as Principal at four elementary schools in the district and had leadership positions in the district office before retiring in 1995.
After retirement, Dave and Tommie enjoyed traveling and spending time with family, including daughters-in-law Debra and Lisa, and grandchildren Matthew, Daniel, Aaron, and Rachel. During the holiday season, the family home was transformed into a winter wonderland.
Dave was at home in the classroom, fishing or bird watching, playing the guitar, playing tennis, tending to his bonsai trees, enjoying a musical or dance show, or hosting the many gatherings held at the family home. He will never be forgotten by the many who loved him deeply.
