David Martinez Gaitan

David Martinez Gaitan was born May 18, 1942 in Los Angeles, California. He passed away Sunday, February 16, 2014, in Pico Rivera, California.



David grew up and went to school in Los Angeles County, graduating from El Rancho High School in Pico Rivera, California. He went on to get his Bachelor's degree in Engineering from California State College In Long Beach, and spent his career as an engineer for the LA County Department of Public Works.



On Febraury 5, 1966, David married Lily Rivera in Whittier, California. They made their home in the Whittier / La Mirada area and raised their two children, David Mark and Denise Yvette. Though they were only married for 15 years, David and Lily remained good friends, and he was always 'part of the family.'



David enjoyed getting out in his motor home and camping. He loved all kinds of sports and was always placing wagers on the games with his father-in-law, Richard Sanchez. Those who knew Dave can attest that he was a VERY staunch Democrat. He will be remembered as a great dad and friend, a loving grandfather, and a generous indidivual.



Survivors include his children, David (Angelic) Gaitan and Denise (Jeffrey) Contreras; and grandchildren, Aviana Caro, Yasmine Moreno, Princess Gaitan, Lily Gaitan, Lori Medeiros, Chloe Medeiros, and Bella Boo Gaitan.



Viewing will begin at 1pm on Sunday, February 19, 2014, at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 E. Philadelphia St., Whittier, California. A service will follow at 2:30pm, and private interment will take place at a later date.