David Pittman

As a youth he joined the US Navy. His career took him to almost every continent on the globe. He spent 17 years of it in Japan where he met and married the love of his life, his late wife who he lovingly called his "partner" Ritsuko. Together they shared sixty years of marriage until her passing in 2018. He retired from the US Navy as a Sr. CPO after actively serving in the Vietnam War. After 20 years of active duty and serving his country along with some of his most impactful work in educating fellow comrades on the importance of diversity and equality while serving in the US Navy. He retired on September 23,1975.

His love for the ocean was real. One of his many hobbies was deep sea fishing. He would often travel to the waters off the Coronado Islands near Mexico on chartered fishing boats from H&M Landing in Pt. Loma. His favorite boat was the “Malihini”. Chasing after yellowtail tuna and being most proud of his many catches and winning jackpots and his fun filled adventures out on the big blue. Also sharing his catches whether they were smoked or raw, with neighbors, friends and or family. He shared always! He also was an avid painter, a true artist. He was extremely passionate about his paintings which started over 50 years ago. He picked up the paint brush again years later and displayed his paintings at local venues in San Diego and yes even in Instagram. Many of his new paintings and art supplies will be donated to schools and art programs for children.

He loved cooking and pairing his dishes with the finest bottles of local wines and from around the world. Most importantly again, always sharing the experiences of elaborate home cooked meals with family, friends, and neighbors.

He departed this life on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. He leaves behind daughter Yukie Pittman (San Diego) his grandson Darris Cooper (Texas). Brothers Eugene Pittman (Inglewood), Charles Pittman, sister-in-law Irma Gean and nephew Derek Christopher. His sister Katie Harmon (Pasadena). Along with hosts of nieces and nephews in Southern California and in Montgomery, Alabama.

He is predeceased by his, wife and "partner" Ritsuko Pittman, his parents Arthur Sr and Ethel Pittman. His sisters Essie Reynolds, and beloved Lillie Potts all from Montgomery, Alabama. His brothers Arthur Jr. Willie James and sister-in-law Brenda Pittman from Los Angeles and Pasadena.

He also leaves cherished his best friend for life - Mr. Emmett Walker and his wife Ada Walker and caregiver and friend Mary Smith-Serpa.

It’s said that David’s incredible life is captured in lyric by the great Frank Sinatra. “Remember me all, for I did it my way”

The family of David Pittman wishes to thank each of you for the many kind expressions of concern and sympathy extended to us during this time.