David C Graska

David Chester Graska, age 83, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, August 28, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Elk Grove, CA.

He was born on June 7, 1943 in Oshkosh, WI to Walter and Mary Graska. From a young age, he enjoyed playing golf, and quickly excelled at the sport—winning multiple tournaments in and around Wisconsin. He still holds the lowest score of 59 at the Lakeside Municipal Golf Club in Oshkosh, WI. At just seventeen, he won the National Hearst Junior Golf Tournament at the Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, CA.

In 1965, David married his eternal sweetheart, Bonnie Hunter, with whom he celebrated over 61 years of marriage. Together they raised two children, Chet David Graska (Carson City, NV) and Lisa Beth Allen (Elk Grove, CA).

A continuous learner, David earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh and his Master’s from the University of Nebraska. He was an avid reader and caring teacher, and truly enjoyed his career with the Boy Scouts of America. After 31 years in various positions in Whittier, CA, Santa Maria, CA, Yuma, AZ, Eugene, OR, Yuba City, CA, and Camarillo, CA, he retired as the Scout Executive for Ventura County, CA.

He was an enthusiastic cyclist, and rode in three California Death Rides and in multiple 100-mile Century rides. One year alone he rode 8,000 miles! He loved traveling with his wife and kids on road trips across the country—and visited all 50 states. He would always attend his grandchildren’s soccer games and activities, and cheer them on from the sidelines.

David was known for his kindness, positivity, and gratitude; he was always ready to serve his proverbial neighbor with a smile. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and a devoted disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Graska (Elk Grove, CA), his son Chet [Tina] Graska (Carson City, NV), daughter Lisa [Christian] Allen (Elk Grove, CA); his five grandchildren: Katelin Centeno [Matt] (AK), Emily Allen [Pedro] (Spain), Abby Beth Sandoval [Genaro] (Utah), Isaac Allen (CA), Lily Allen (El Paso, TX); one great granddaughter, Emery Centeno (AK); his sister Shirley Shea (Oshkosh, WI); three sister-in-laws, Ginger Albrecht (Columbia Falls, MT), Barbara Pascoe (Healdsburg, CA), Debbie Selle (Tulsa, OK); three brother-in-laws, Gerald Hunter (Decorah, IA), Gordon Hunter (Decorah, IA), Peter Hunter (Corpus Christi, TX); along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service celebrating David’s exceptional life will be held on Friday, September 11, at 10 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on 9910 Bruceville Road, Elk Grove, CA.