David Alan Gonzalez

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 before moving to Cottage Grove, then Springfield, and eventually making his home in Sublimity in 2017.

A 1983 graduate of Cottage Grove High School, David believed in lifelong learning. He pursued courses in a variety of settings throughout his life, always seeking to expand his knowledge and strengthen his skills for whatever role he held. His career path was diverse- he worked as a delivery driver for Tracktown Pizza, in metal fabrication, and served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, reflecting his deep passion for helping others.

David found his home at the Oregon Department of Corrections, teaching himself to play “Taps” for the honor guard and working his way up to the rank of Captain. During his career, David was part of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team and the Employee Services Department (ESD), and while at OSCI, he served as President of the Employee Association.

David’s leadership, mentorship, and team spirit were widely recognized. Among his many accomplishments, he was named OSCI Correctional Officer of the Year in 2016 and Oregon Department of Corrections Correctional Officer of the Year in 2017. In 2017, he also received the department’s Outstanding Service Award, an honor that reflected the respect and admiration he earned from his colleagues.

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, enjoying an annual fishing trip to the Umpqua, dirt biking in Crescent with friends, and camping with his family. He was a former member and president of Green Valley Hunting and Retrieving.

David was known for his ability to make everyone feel valued and included. He always went out of his way to ask, “How are ya?” His infectious laugh and genuine smile could brighten any room. David’s witty and dry humor added a special spark to every conversation. Whether pulling a playful prank, sharing a story, or lending a hand, he brought joy and warmth wherever he went.

He was preceded in death by his father, Sidney Gonzalez, who passed away on March 1, 2025, and his stepson, Andrew Belcher, who passed away on December 14, 1990. He is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Gonzalez; his children Brenden and his wife Beth, Brady, and Becca Gonzalez; grandchildren Sydney and Landen; and his 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.