David Harvey Gavin

January 7, 1951 - September 9, 2017

David Harvey Gavin was born in Hyannis, Massachusetts on January 7th, 1951. He is one of seven children born to Joseph and Jeanette Gavin. David attended Harwich High School and Cape Cod Community College. Growing up on Cape Cod, he developed a passion for baseball, RC airplanes, and music. He enjoyed swimming in the ponds and beaches of the Cape in the summer, and iceboating with his father in the winter. Becoming an exceptional guitarist, Dave played in many bands in the area and released an album with Spruce before meeting the love of his life, Gail Ann Davies. The couple married on November 6th, 1977 in North Harwich, Mass.

Dave and Gail moved to California in December 1977 and had four children, John Gavin (Stacy), Mathew Gavin, Jesse Gavin (Amie) and Lynne Nelson (Brian). He found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren Leah, Gracie, and Ember.

Over the course of his life in California Dave played in multiple bands, started his own business, and worked for Upland Unified School District as an IT technician for eighteen years. He taught his three sons to play multiple instruments and along with brother-in-law Dave Davies fronted the family band for over twenty years. Dave’s daughter was as gifted and she and he were enjoying each other as he coached her on the guitar. He became heavily involved in pylon racing (NMPRA), as well as AMA, and was a valued member of the local racing community.

Dave was known for his kindness, sense of humor, and willingness to help others. He was known by many names such as Dave, Pops, Davey, Gav, Bee, and Harve, which illustrates the connections he maintained with many different people. His calm demeanor served as a comfort to his loved ones and his musical creativity set an example for his children.

A celebration of life will be held at Magdaleno’s in Upland, CA on October 14th from 1-5 in the afternoon.

The address is 220 N. Central Avenue, Upland, CA 91786