David Robert Del Simone's Obituary
DAVID ROBERT DEL SIMONE
NOVEMBER 25, 1953 – OCTOBER 7, 2015
David Del Simone, middle son of Ernest and Annita Del Simone, died peacefully at home in Oakland, on October 7, 2015, after a two year battle with brain cancer. Dave is survived by his wife of 28 years, Ann Robison Del Simone, and his daughter, Alice Jeanne Del Simone, and her partner, Spencer Iascone; as well as his mother, his brother Alan Del Simone (Jane) and his sister Donna Houser (Scott) and numerous well-loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.
Dave graduated from El Cerrito High School in 1972 and received a B.A. in Political Theory from UC Berkeley in 1976. He graduated from U.S.F. School of Law in 1979, and practiced law in Contra Costa and Alameda counties for thirty-five years, in particular as a member of the Contra Costa Juvenile Dependency Bar where he was known by the bench and bar as a dedicated advocate for the children and parents whom he represented.
Dave was committed to the community in which he lived. He was President of the West County Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association and served on the Board of Trustees for the Contra Costa Law Library for over 20 years, helping to keep open the West County Law Library in the Richmond courthouse. He also followed his passion for classical music, which he inculcated in his daughter, with dedication to the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir. Dave served on the PEBCC’s Board of Directors, including a term as President, and wherever he went he was an apostle of the importance of classical singing in the lives of children. Dave also was a sailor, who spent many happy hours on boats in the Bay, including his beloved “Shameless.”
We will remember and miss Dave when we listen to an opera; enjoy a good play; watch the Giants, Cal Bears and Raiders play ball; laugh at a joke well told; gather with family and friends; eat a fine meal; look up at the stars on a summer night in the mountains; and especially when we see a bearded man of short stature in a Hawaiian shirt with a smile on his lips and a twinkle in his eyes.
There will be a private family service, with a celebration of Dave’s life for family and friends to follow at the family’s traditional New Year’s Day party on 1/1/2016.
Sincere thanks to all who helped Dave and his family during his illness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir, 3629 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610.
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?