Obituary of David Paul Brightwell

A Celebration of Life for David will be held on June 18th from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Vista Del Lago Clubhouse, Scotts Valley, CA 95066. Sadly David Paul Brightwell, age 62, has lost his courageous battle with ALS. David was born in Seattle, WA to parents Shirley and Paul Brightwell. At a young age, David and his family moved to Santa Cruz, CA where he has lived throughout the years. He attended school in Santa Cruz and graduated from Soquel High School in 1972. David worked over 30 years for Kraft Auto Body until he was forced to retire in August of 2013 due to his illness. At an early age, David won many stock car events at Watsonville, Antioch, Merced and San Jose speedways. He went on to become the California State Stock Car Champion in 1976. It was during this time that David met his wife Kendall Graham. They were married on October 27, 1990. David loved NASCAR, Formula 1 racing, and Steelhead fishing in the rivers of Northern California. He also had a passion for Kaanapali, Maui where he and Kendall enjoyed many vacations with family and friends. David is survived by his wife Kendall of 26 years, father Paul Brightwell of Shingletown, CA, sister Karin Morris (John) of Redding, CA, brothers Kevin Brightwell of Shingletown, CA and Daryl Brightwell (Janet) of Spokane, WA, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his mother Shirley Brightwell. A heartfelt thank you to Heartland Hospice and his caregivers Ruel, Rosauro and Ernie. In lieu of flowers we ask that any contributions be made in David's memory to the ALS foundation, P.O. Box 565 Agoura Hills, CA 91376.