David M. Souza
December 20, 1960 - August 29, 2021

David Souza passed away on August 29th, 2021 after a lengthy illness.

David was born on December 20, 1960 to Joe L. and Donna Souza. He graduated from Los Banos High in 1976. He joined the family business while in high school and worked with his father until 1990 then ran the family hay business until he retired to care for his mother in 2007.

One of the gifts his father and grandfathers gave him was the love of fishing and hunting. Dave was an avid outdoorsman and was well known for his many trophy fish. He began hunting at 12 years old. He managed several duck clubs during his lifetime and taught many young hunters and fishermen the skills needed to do the same. He spent countless days fishing on the Merced River with his cousin Mike Keyes. Dave and Mike were fishing buddies from childhood and for years never missed an opening day of trout season. Dave shared all his fishing and hunting skills with his children Jeremy, Jarred, Janessa and anyone that wanted to learn. David would share with friends that although Jeremy shared his passion to fish, Dave was still the "King of fishing".

David's mom Donna bestowed the gift of a love of nature and gardening. He had a huge garden and shared and traded produce freely. His yard showed his love of nature with bird feeders and habitat that made time in his backyard peaceful and alive with nature. David also loved animals and had several dogs throughout his life that he spent countless hours with. His current dogs Riley, Ursa, and mom's dog Sweet-pea rarely left his side, much to the comfort of David and his pets.

David's home was opened to all. He spent many hours with friends and family laughing and listening. He shared his wisdom and insights gladly. He had an amazing memory and could remember minute details much to everyone's amazement. His love for all will forever be reciprocated as we hold David close to our hearts and in thought, as the man he was and as we remember dearly.

David is survived by his mother Donna Souza; sons Jeremy (Cassandra Luna) and Jarred Souza; sisters Liz McClain, Christine Souza and Joanne Souza; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Janessa Souza in 2017, his brother Daniel Souza in August 2020 and his father Joe L Souza 1990. He was also preceded by his paternal grandparents J.R. and Mary Elizabeth Rodrigues; grandmother Lucille Cantrell and his grandfather, Dee Cantrell who was his mentor and guide for many years.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Whitehurst Funeral Chapel, Los Banos at 3:00 p.m

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