David Joel Bonacci

May 18, 1937 - January 12, 2021

David Joel Bonacci passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, including his wife of 61 years, Shirley, and his three daughters. He is preceded in death by his parents, Silvo and Marie Bonacci. A native of California, David spent his childhood in Crockett, CA. He graduated from John Swett High School in 1955. After graduating from high school, David enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served until an injury forced him to take a medical discharge. Once discharged from the Marine Corps, David attended and graduated from mortuary school in San Francisco. After graduation, David went to work for Wiggins Funeral Home, and soon after married his sweetheart, Shirley, and they relocated to Vallejo to start their lives together. Having lost both parents at a young age, David took on many responsibilities. This influenced his chosen profession in providing comfort and empathy to his clients as they planned a loved one's funeral needs. True to his loyal and kind nature, David continued his employment with Wiggins Funeral Home and Skyview Memorial Lawn Mortuary until his retirement at age 74. During his career as a mortician, David wore many hats including night watchman, head embalmer, manager, deputy coroner, and funeral director. With a heart to those less fortunate or in need, David would often reach out and give assistance. None more noticeable than with his love for animals. He was known for caring for many stray cats that he came across. Many times he payed to have them spayed or neutered, and assisted in finding them a forever-home when possible. On more than one occasion, David would bring home one of these abandoned or injured animals making them a new family pet. In his spare time, David enjoyed cooking for his family, gambling, especially playing the slot machines, listening to his police radio, and following the stock market. David leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 61 years, Shirley Bonacci, his daughters, Angela Camara and her husband John of Suisun City, Danette Rugg of Pleasant Hill, and Sylvia Harmon of Vallejo, and four grandchildren, Candice Rugg, David Harmon, Jessica Leenders, and Madelyn Camara. A celebration of David's life will be held at a later date. If you would like to be contacted with the date, please forward your email address to [email protected] Arrangements and care entrusted to Wiggins-Knipp Funeral Home, 524 Capitol Street, Vallejo, CA.