David Alan Gonzales
May 15, 1965 — August 10, 2025
David Alan Gonzalez May 15, 1965 – August 10, 2025
David Alan Gonzalez, 60, of Sublimity, Oregon, passed away on August 10, 2025, in Portland, Oregon.
He was born on May 15, 1965, in Lancaster, California, to Sidney and Maryellen (Vensel) Gonzalez. David spent his early years in Lancaster, where he lived for 12 years, before moving to Cottage Grove for 16 years, then Springfield for 18 years, and finally settling in Sublimity in 2017.
A 1983 graduate of Cottage Grove High School, David also pursued college coursework. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to serving others. He was a volunteer firefighter/EMT and worked at Pierce Corporation, Metal Products, and ultimately the Oregon Department of Corrections, where he served as a captain. Known for his leadership, mentorship, and team spirit, David earned numerous accolades, including OSCI Correctional Officer of the Year (2016) and Department of Corrections Correctional Officer of the Year (2017). He also received an Outstanding Service Award that same year.
On February 19, 1994, David married the love of his life, Tammy Flesher, in Cottage Grove. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. David had a deep passion for the outdoors, fishing and hunting along the Umpqua, McKenzie, and Row rivers, and dirt biking in Crescent. He was an avid member of Green Valley Hunting and Retrieving, competing with his English springer spaniel, Gunner, and German shorthaired pointer, Cooper. As a proud member of the Department of Corrections Honor Guard, David taught himself to play the bugle so he could perform “Taps” at ceremonies.
David was known for his infectious laughter, witty and dry humor, and ability to make everyone feel valued. Whether pulling a playful prank, sharing a story, or lending a hand, he brought joy and warmth to every room.
He was preceded in death by his father, Sidney Gonzalez (March 1, 2025), and his stepson, Andrew Lee Belcher (December 14, 1990). He is survived by his wife, Tammy Gonzalez; children, Brenden Gonzalez, Brady Gonzalez, and Becca Gonzalez; grandchildren, Sydney and Landen; and sister, Maya Gonzalez.
A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Weddle Funeral Service, 1777 N. Third Ave., Stayton, Oregon.
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