Dave Lucci History – Celebration of Life 01/03/2026

David Emerson Lucci was born on January 31, 1947 in Norwalk, Ohio to Terzo Joseph Lucci and Fancheon Elizabeth Lucci.

Dave has three children – Michelle Lucci-Garcia, Sherre Elizabeth Lucci and Matthew David Lucci; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Dave is also survived by his half-brother Bob Spratt, his brother-in-law Larry Gault, nephew Jim Gault, niece Kim and their children and grandchildren. Dave was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Bob Spratt; his sister, Pat Gault; and niece Kathy Gault.

Dave grew up in Ohio and joined the Navy and served as a gunner on the USS DeHaven. Dave served two tours in Vietnam between 1966 and 1969. After he returned home, he married Michelle’s mother and they moved to Michigan. Interestingly, two of Dave’s Navy friends visited him in a Corvette and convinced him to move his family to California. Dave and Karen later met in Sacramento and were married on May 28, 1977. They have two children Sherre and Matthew.

In 1980, while living in Portola, Dave became a believer in Christ and this decision changed the course of his life. He spent many years as a youth pastor and pastor but found his passion when he became a Chaplain. Dave volunteered in the prison and jails and various recovery homes for over 20 years.

In 2019, Dave purchased his first Corvette and Dave & Karen joined a Corvette Club. The last years of his life included many corvette adventures and new friendships that brought much joy to his life.

On November 22, 2025, Dave lost his battle with brain cancer while at home with family by his side.

A Shipmate Remembers

So saddened by the loss of one of my closest friends DavId Lucci “AKA” Dave “Wipeout” Spratt. He was a dear shipmate and truly my brother in arms. We served together aboard the DeHaven from 1966-1968 where he served as a gunners mate and was seen as always steady, dependable and brave.

When we were not in combat and our guns were silent we hit the beach together and enjoyed our most valued shore liberty. Our religion back then was our band called “Swing West.” And when Dave picked up his drum sticks he brought life to our orchestra. Music was his refuge, his joy and his first faith during those very trying times. For nearly sixty years, through peace and storms alike, we stayed connected. That kind of friendship is rare. Dave carried that same rhythm that made him such a fantastic drummer for the rest of his life. A steady beat and a steady heart to be shared by all.

After the Navy, his journey led him to a deeper calling and he built a faith based ministry that touched countless lives. If music was his religion at sea, God became his compass on shore. He spent his life giving to his friends and community. And even though he’s gone, I know the rhythm he set in this world is still playing somewhere. Dave leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, kindness, purpose and faith. He lived fully, served honorably and cared fiercely. I will miss him more than words can express but, I’m so very grateful for every nautical mile we sailed together. Fair winds and following seas my friend.

Don Kovacs RD3 (66-68)