David Owen Hively

David Hively was someone who truly embodied love and devotion to his family. He was quick witted in his comebacks though he was a man of few words, and most of all his strength and resilience was something he always possessed.

We’d like to share a little bit about who David was.David Hively was born in Wasco, CA on April 14th 1948. The son of Vessie and Laura “Dee” Hively. David enjoyed fishing with his brothers and father and getting boss hogged by his two older sisters. He had a love for all things sports and even played basketball in high school and in an adult league as he got older. He resided in Wasco, CA during his childhood and teenage years where he met the love of his life- Johanne “Joyce” Toorop. They fell in love and became high school sweethearts. David was then drafted at the age of 18 years old to become a soldier in the Vietnam War. But before he left, he made sure to promise Joyce Hively forever and married her on April 20th 1968. He served in the Army with the title of USAR Control Group (Reinforcement)- Ranked SP5 located in Fort Lewis Washington as the 6th Army. David served in the army from 1968 to 1971. He had three beautiful children- first came his daughter Shannon, his son Casey, and his “baby” Cassidy. David enjoyed his time at the golf course, coming home late from the bowling alley, and playing softball with his wife and friends. He loved competition and the excitement that sports had to offer- whether he be playing the sport or watching it on the TV. He then lived in Delano where they grew their beautiful family. David Hively worked at the Sierra Winery for 17 years and Delano Growers for 30 years as the Operation Supervisor. David was well respected by many and took pride in his work.

He is survived by his siblings- Jack Hively, Ann Park, Sue Miller, Joe Hively, His daughter- Shannon Bangi, His sons- Casey and Cassidy Hively, His grandchildren Kayla Hively, Malhea Nicolas, and Ella Bangi, Samiah Hively, Nathaniel Hively, Casey Jr. Hively, Myelz Hively, Zachary Hively, and his Great grandson Russell.

What really defined David was how he made people around him feel and the sacrifices he made in his life. David was a selfless, loving, and strong-willed man who always had a smile on his face. Throughout David’s early and adult years- people remember him for his quick witted jokes, rebellious nature, his playful dares, and his love for music: the Beatles and The Grateful Dead. His radiant smile and presence can be felt in every room he walked into.

He is preceded in death by his father Vessie “Jack” Hively, his mother Laura “Dee” Hively, and the love of his life Joyce Hively.

David touched many lives. He was loved deeply by his family, friends, and work community. His impact will continue to be felt in the resilience and strength he had shown. If there is one thing that he has shown throughout his life that we can take with us in ours is how important it is to cherish our families and to love them unconditionally. Words don't do justice in describing how loyal and loving this man was. But being in the presence of David, the conversations, and the laughs that were had with him- is what we will remember and hold on to forever.

Although it’s difficult to say goodbye, we can find comfort in knowing that David’s legacy lives on through his children and his family.

May we remember David Owen Hively not just for how he left us, but for how he lived and the joy he had brought into our lives. He was and still is a hero to us.

We will deeply miss you.