Dave Luis passed away peacefully on November 24, 2016 in the presence of those he loved most, his wife Clarice and three children, Josh (McKenzie), Kayleigh and Courtney.  Dave, 58, also leaves behind his father, Manuel, sister Diane Worley, her children Joni (Sheridan Christensen and children Dominick and Jace) and Joseph (Erica) Worley and his brother, Dan (Dana and children Nathan and Caleb). Dave had a deep love for his mother, Joyce, with whom he is now reunited.
   Cancer was no victor in Dave’s story. It may have shortened his life, but it only enhanced his impact. A fighter to the end, Dave would never think of himself as an inspiration to generations, but that is in fact what he is. His life embodied simple principles of authenticity, kindness, loyalty, humility, hard work, integrity and above all, service. Dave lived for others and was motivated by helping and bringing out the best in those around him. Professionally, Dave spent 26 years with the Ripon Fire District as a firefighter, Captain, and Chief Officer. As a volunteer, Dave coached football in Ripon for 23 years and devoted more than 20 years to supporting 4-H and FFA members and their swine projects. Dave’s work with the Ripon 4-H swine program was a source of great joy and he always felt honored to work with the kids and help them reach their goals. Dave’s time was always freely given with no expectation of anything in return. Because of his decades of service across multiple age groups, Dave has impacted generations.
While we will miss his presence and his trademark mustache, we take comfort in knowing that cancer has no power to diminish his lasting imprint on our lives or the ripple effect of his example. Dave’s life makes us better.
   A memorial service will be held at 9 a.m on Friday, December 2, 2016 at P.L. Fry and Son, 290 North Union Road, Manteca. After the service, guests will proceed to the Ripon Community Center for the final ringing of the firefighter bell. The bell ceremony honors lost firefighters and the Ripon Fire District bell bears the name of Joyce Luis, Dave’s mother, and 37-year member of the RFD family. As Dave wanted, there will also be plenty of laughter, food, and drinks available at the Community Center.
In honor of Dave, donations can be made to the Ripon Fire District, the Luis Family Memorial Scholarship, and the Ripon 4-H Swine Group.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Tuesday, November 29, 2016