David Gregory Etzler

David Gregory “Dave” Etzler, age 69, passed away on March 6, 2026, in Ventura, California. Born on February 9, 1957, in Hawthorne, California, to Gary and Bonnie Etzler, he spent most of his childhood in Sylmar, where he graduated from Sylmar High School with the class of 1975.

From an early age, Dave found joy on the baseball field, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He later coached Little League for his stepson Ken and, in his later years, discovered a love for golf, fishing, and hunting, often sharing these outdoor pursuits with family and friends.

Dave met the love of his life, Kristen, while working together at Fisherman’s Wharf in Castaic. They married in 1984 and shared a devoted partnership until her passing in 2017. He embraced her children—Kari, Karla, and Ken—as his own, raising them with patience, kindness, and steady support.

In 1983, Dave began a long career in the oil industry, advancing through hard work and determination from laborer to business owner. In recent years, he became a part owner of Western Fishing Services. He will be remembered for his gentle nature, quiet strength, and the deep care he showed for those around him.

Dave is survived by his stepchildren Kari Locke-Nash (Darrin), Karla Neal (Steve), and Ken Evanoff; his brothers Mike (Ellen), Terry (Debbie), and Brian; his grandchildren Kristen, Katie, Kailyn, Jack, Anna, Sarah, Kaleb, Conner, Brady, and Madison; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kristen K. Etzler; his parents, Gary and Bonnie Etzler; and his nephew, Jonn Etzler.