David Anthony Vela

Visitation will be on Sunday, September 18, 2016, from 5 - 7 pm in the Memorial Chapel of Laurel Land Funeral Home located at 7100 Crowley Road. The Celebration of Life will be on Monday, September 19, 2016, at 10 am at Westminster Presbyterian Church located at 7001 Trail Lake Drive. There will be a graveside service at Laurel Land Cemetery followed by a reception at the church fellowship hall.

David was born on May 20, 1959 to A. Robert and Rosalinda Vela. He grew up on the south side of Fort Worth and lived in Fort Worth his entire life. He was a third-generation Texan who attended DeZavala Elementary and Daggett Middle School. In 1978 David graduated from R.L. Paschal High School where he was known for attending every prom and dance and especially for doing the “gator”. David played football and was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan who was known for his Super Bowl parties and also supported the Texas Rangers. David was the epitome of someone who lived life to the fullest with a western flare. He was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing golf and cooking on the grill. David, who had a big heart and was always there for everyone, was known for being a social person who could entertain others and make them laugh. He recently retired from Lockheed Martin after 31 years of service.

In 1989 David married Gloria Razo at Hemphill Presbyterian Church and acknowledged the positive influence she had on his life over the 26 years of their marriage. In 1992 they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Amanda Christine Vela. Through the years they enjoyed family gatherings, sports, and daily life. He was very proud of Amanda and all of her academic accomplishments.

David is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Manuela Zavala, his father- and mother-in-law, Joe and Connie Razo, and his sister-in-law, Mary and husband James Mayfield.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria, his daughter, Amanda, his parents, Robert and Rosalinda, his brother, Bob (Janet), his sister, Becky (Joe O'Neal), his sister-in-laws, Estella Baker and Patricia Whitmire along with many extended family and friends.