David

Lursen

David Edward Lursen, 75, Family Man, Car Enthusiast and Builder

David Edward Lursen, a lifelong craftsman with a boundless curiosity for life and a heart as big as the homes he built, passed away on August 25, 2024, in Hollister, California, at the age of 75. Born in Los Gatos, California, Dave lived a life rich in family, hard work, a love for cars, and adventure. Though officially retired, David never really stopped working. His hands were always busy, whether building custom homes that stood as testaments to his skill or crafting something as simple as a doghouse. His love for carpentry was a calling, not just a profession, and it infused every aspect of his life.

David is survived by his loving family - wife, Javana Sammons-Lursen (Blondie-to most), his daughter and son-in-law Viet & Shannon Pham; his stepdaughter Chevon Sammons and Brian Rhein, parents to Sienna age 6, Abigail age 4, and Landon 15months; who affectionately called him "Popo".  He is preceded in death by his beloved mother Mary Jane Lursen and father Fred O. Lursen. As Popo he proudly used a wallet covered in stickers, and listened to a cheerful song every night before bedtime. For the family, he was their rock, their storyteller, and source of comfort—always ready for a chat about cars, or a new dream he had up his sleeve. Sometimes tough on the outside, Dave's true nature was revealed through his kindness and quiet generosity.

Dave was always up for an adventure, often in the form of a road trip or taking to the sky. He loved every form of transportation, from riding horses and roping in his younger years, to model trains, remote-controlled airplanes, and for years his Cessna, which he flew proudly across the skies of California. Whether cruising on a big boat in the bay, going to the Reno Air Races, Hot August Nights, or driving an endless stream of classic cars, David found joy in the freedom and connection to people they provided. His love for these adventures painted a picture of a man who never stopped moving, learning, and dreaming.

He was a man of stories, known to strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. Dave once found himself in the heart of San Francisco, greeting every passerby with a cheerful "hello" until the sheer volume of people made it unsustainable—an anecdote that perfectly captured his warmth.

In the 1980s, Dave proudly built a 1,600-square-foot home entirely by himself in 45 days, save for the painting, which he happily left to someone else—one of the few tasks he was always happy to delegate. That house, like the 1,000's of  homes he built across California, was a lasting testament to his grit, talent, and love for creating something meaningful with his hands.

David Lursen was a one-of-a-kind man who leaves behind a legacy built not only in wood and stone but in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched along the way.

Services will be held on September 25, 2024 at 10:30 am, at Black-Cooper-Sander Funeral Home in Hollister, CA, where David's life will be celebrated by those who loved him most.

In lieu of flowers, build something, take a road trip, or have an adventure and think of Dave. It's what he would have wanted.