David Gary Old lived in Stockton most of his life. He was a father, a grandfather, and a great-grandfather. He loved fiercely, lived hard, and died easy.

He was a world-traveled Navy man, a devoted and frequently-frustrated Braves fan, and always a straight shooter. And he demanded straight-shooting from everyone around him. Sometimes that wasn't easy, but it was the right way to live, and we thank him for it.

His best friend, Ellen, was his wife of nearly 50 years. His family was his world, and that world was filled with laughter, good tunes, and deep talks.

He believed in the righteousness of God, the sweetness of people, and the power of love.

Toward the end, he told us that, as humans, we are supposed to be "big fat blobs of love, all bumping into each other, and loving one another. We get it wrong all the time, but that's all God wants from us."

Dad told us truths. He shined light on our little world, and we hope to keep it shining on.

We're sending Gary on his way this Sunday, September 3rd at 2 pm at Colonial Rose Chapel, 520 N. Sutter Street.

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