David Robert Reichel

    David Reichel passed away December 18th, 2024, from complications of his stem-cell transplant for leukemia, with his wife and two sons by his side.

    Born November 26, 1964 - the youngest of 4 children - into the loving family of Leon and Grace Reichel in Vista, California. He received his education there and graduated from Vista High in 1983, after which he earned his bachelor’s degree at UC San Diego. He later earned a certification in Cardiovascular Technology at Grossmont College. David spent his entire career in cardiovascular care, starting with Daly Medical Products, Tri-City Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Medical Center, followed by 20 years with Volcano Therapeutics/Philips. Dave truly loved caring for patients and educating physicians, medical staff and co-workers.

    Dave and Chris married in 1993 and moved to Davis, and then Stockton, CA. In Stockton they made life-long friends. They became a part of an irreplaceable Jewish community, Temple Israel, in which they raised their boys. Eventually, work brought the family back to his native San Diego County, where he was thrilled to be close to his oldest friends, siblings, nieces, nephews, and Chris’s family. 

    Dave was a devoted husband to Chris, and a proud father to Jason and Matthew. His family and friends were the recipients of the hugs, incredible kindness and love he was well-known for, and he relished every opportunity to celebrate milestones, share laughter, and create memories as often as possible. 

    Dave had a great sense of adventure. He loved Jason & Matthew’s annual Tree Burn in the desert, camping, skiing, hiking, diving and lying in the tropical sun. He shared his love of music, especially live music, with many friends and family. He attended over 100 concerts, enjoyed Dave Rees’ local bands, the Kaaboo music festival and Jimmy Buffett concerts (Fins Up!)

    Dave is survived by his wife Chris, his sons Jason and Matthew, as well as his siblings, Jan Scism (Bryan), and Kurt Reichel (Teresa) and 17 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Leon Reichel and his brother Clifford Reichel. A wide circle of extended family, friends and co-workers will miss him dearly.

    If you would like to do something in Dave’s memory, the blood bank is always in need of platelet donors. Also, consider becoming a stem-cell donor. The National Marrow Donor Program (https://www.nmdp.org/) can set up testing, which is just a cheek swab. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to your preferred non-profit who cares for pets or wildlife.

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