David Michael Leone

Dave was born in San Francisco, CA, on January 12, 1945, to his loving parents, Odette and Charlie Leone (both deceased). He grew up in the Bay Area and graduated from Capuchino High School in San Bruno, CA, in 1963 before earning his degree from San Jose State University in 1967.

Dave proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as the First Sergeant of the 91st Division Training, Transportation Company, U.S. Army Reserve, stationed at Fort Point, San Francisco, from July 1968 to July 1974. His military service was a significant and cherished part of his life, instilling in him a deep sense of duty, camaraderie, and resilience.

Dave built a successful career in the technology sector, beginning at IBM, where he developed his passion for innovation and problem-solving. He remained in the technology field throughout his professional life, contributing his expertise and dedication until his well-earned retirement.

Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, Dave was deeply committed to giving back to his community. He dedicated his time as a volunteer at Hope's Closet of Santa Cruz, St. Francis Soup Kitchen of Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz Humane Society. His generosity and compassion touched countless lives, reflecting his belief in the power of kindness and service.

Dave is survived by his wonderful younger sister, Diane DiVittorio, her husband Mark, and their son, Jim. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 33 years, Sandee Frost, who tragically passed away on December 27, 2023. The sudden loss of both Dave and Sandee within such a short time is a heartbreaking shock to all who knew and loved them.

Dave was an incredible stepfather to Sandee’s daughters, Natasha Elliott and Nicolla Hill, and a deeply respected father-in-law to Brian Hill and Matt Elliott. But perhaps his most cherished role was that of "Papa" to his adored grandchildren—Beau, Jackson, Piper, and Marley. Each of them filled his life with immeasurable joy, laughter, and, of course, an endless list of chores that only he could be trusted to do correctly (and without complaint—well, maybe just a little!).

A true adventurer at heart, Dave loved traveling and especially relished train journeys, which perfectly combined his love for exploration and relaxation. He found joy in the outdoors—fishing, biking, and simply celebrating life with family and friends. Whether it was a holiday, a birthday, or just a beautiful day, Dave believed in making every moment special. His appreciation for live music and social gatherings made him the life of every event, and his handyman skills ensured that no project was ever left unfinished.

The military shaped a great deal of Dave’s identity, and his dedication to service and honor never wavered. In his own words, "Death will come as the Universe willed it to be. My hope is I had a very long run and good health, completed my bucket list, and enjoyed the best of family love and time together any man could want and now have moved on in peace. I have been blessed with a wonderful wife, daughters, sons-in-law, and grandkids."

While his passing leaves an immeasurable void, Dave’s spirit, humor, and unwavering love will remain with us always. He lived life fully, loved deeply, and left a legacy of kindness, strength, and adventure. May he rest in peace, reunited with Sandee, watching over us with that ever-present twinkle in his eye.

A a celebration of life for David will be held Sunday, February 16, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Seascape Golf Club, Monarch Room, 610 Clubhouse Dr, Aptos, CA 95003.