David Charles Face

David Charles Face passed away peacefully at home on January 30, 2026, at the age of 96. Just a few weeks earlier, he had celebrated his 96th birthday surrounded by all of his children—an occasion that meant the world to him. David was born on January 17, 1930, in Michigan—“on a COLD day,” as he loved to say, repeating the story of how his mother always reminded him just how cold it was when he arrived. As a small child, David moved with his family to Hawthorne, California, and later to Riverside, where he attended and graduated from Poly High School. After high school, David proudly joined the United States Air Force. His service was cut short due to a medical retirement, but his pride in serving never left him. David met the love of his life, Shirley, through his sister, ZoAnn Smerber. Shirley and ZoAnn were close friends—soon to become sisters-in-law. David and Shirley married in July 1956 and built the home where they would share more than 60 years of marriage and memories in Colton, California. David went on to build a long, successful career with Trans World Airlines (TWA), working as an Account Executive for more than 37 years. He became well known for his humor—often walking into a client’s oﬃce with a joke ready, always looking to bring a laugh. Even after retirement, he continued sharing jokes with former colleagues through emails, keeping those connections and that laughter alive. Through his career, David and Shirley enjoyed traveling to many countries together. After retirement, they continued to travel—still by plane, but also enjoying the relaxation and adventure of cruising. Music was another lifelong passion. David played trombone in high school, continued in the military band, and later joined the Riverside Community Band. Music gave him a way to connect with others and share his love of performance for many years. As David and Shirley grew older, they sold their home and moved into the backyard casita at Ron and ZoAnn Peterson’s house. It gave them independence, along with the comfort and security of having family close by. David will be remembered most for his humor and his deep appreciation for life. Even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, he never lost his sense of humor. He had a way of answering questions with questions—always making it make sense, and always making people smile. He remained a joy to be with until his last day. He greeted each morning with a booming “GOOD MORNING!” and ended each day with, “Thank you for the day!” He treasured every visit with family and friends, and after someone left, he would talk about what a nice visit it had been, grateful for the time together. David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Face; his daughter Marquita Ruﬀner; his parents, Olyn Keith Face and Collette Face; his brothers, Richard, Herman, and Gary; and his sisters, Maxine Carrera and Marquita Geisler. He is survived by his seven children: Tom (Annette) Face, Theresa (Scott) Roach, Michael (Debbie) Face, ZoAnn (Ron) Peterson, Michelle (Mike) Belicki, Brian Face, and Scott (Melissa) Face; 17 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and his sister, ZoAnn Smerber. Services will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, at Christ the Redeemer Church in Grand Terrace, California. Rosary: 9:30 a.m. Mass: 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Riverside National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. A reception will be held at the home of Ron and ZoAnn Peterson following the burial.

David Charles Face

January 17, 1930 - January 30, 2026