Elena Marie David was born January 13, 1942, in Arcata to Angelo and Mary Tanferani. She passed peacefully with her family by her side on December 7, 2022. A native of Arcata, Elena graduated from Arcata High School in 1959 and attended Humboldt State University for two years in a secretarial training program. Elena married her high school sweetheart, Kenneth (Ken) David, in 1961, together they celebrated 55 of years of marriage. During those years they raised their son (Brian) and Daughter (Jan), purchased Ken’s Auto Parts, and enjoyed time together. Elena and Ken enjoyed traveling with friends, many trips to Mexico with their dear friends Don and Marlene Miller, going to Trinity Lake, and being involved in the community, as well as the lives of those they loved.

Elena’s dedication, commitment and service to her community was unique and inspirational. She was an influential positive female role model for her generation. She started at Bank of America at the age of 16, as a part-time teller, and after 25 years she worked here way up to branch manager. Over the 40 years she worked at Bank of America, she held many roles, but her favorite role was helping the community and all those she met through working at the bank. Elena was awarded “Outstanding Young Women of America” in 1977. This program was designed to honor young women between the ages of 21-36 who had distinguished themselves in their homes, profession and communities, it is no surprise Elena was awarded, she far exceeded in all areas. In addition to her role at BofA, Elena served as Treasurer of the Italian Catholic Federation, held many positions within Soroptimist, Hospitality Chairman for Bloomfield PTA, Cheerleader Coordinator and Board member of the Arcata-McKinleyville Pop Warner, March of Dimes, United Way, Easter Seals, and was heavily involved in St. Mary’s Catholic Church her whole life. In 2001, Elena retired from Bank of America, though she didn’t let that slow her down.

Elena continued to serve the community through the various boards listed above as well as new ones, where she brought her financial expertise and background along. From November 8, 2004, to September 20, 2021, she served as a Director for the Arcata Fire Protection District Board Division 4, leading the way as the first female Board Member. During her time on the Arcata Fire Board, she was Vice President for 10 years. She also served as President for Soroptimist International for Arcata from 2000 to 2021. Elena was a board member for Clarke Historical Museum and joined Senior Citizens on Patrol (S.C.O.P), which she absolutely loved. She adored the Community and was always looking for a way to make an impact. Elena touched many people’s lives. Wherever she went or whatever board she was on, she made lifelong friends whom she loved, cherished, and always had so much fun with.

While staying involved in the community, she also did a phenomenal job staying involved in her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids lives. Elena was present in everything they did, up until her very last day. Her family was her pride and joy, she loved hosting family gatherings, attending sporting events, cheerleading competitions, bake sales and so much more. We as her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids feel extremely blessed to have had such an inspiring role model in our lives.

Elena is preceded in death by her husband Kenneth David; her parents, Angelo, and Mary Tanferani. She is survived by her brother Don (Vickey); son Brian David (Wendy), daughter Jan David-DeVore; grandchildren Lindsey Devore (Camron), Kaylee David, Cortney Fasnacht (Michael); great-grandchildren Jacob Steele, Cobe Duncan and Hali Fasnacht and many other relatives and close friends.

A public visitation will be held at Paul’s Chapel, Friday December 16, 2022, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., a public rosary will follow. Saturday December 17, 2022, a Formal Mass at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church will be held at 11 a.m., a reception will follow at Leavey Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Mary’s Church, Arcata, Hospice of Humboldt, Soroptimist or your favorite charity.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Elena David’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.