David R. Albert – November 23, 1935 – January 13, 2025
David R. Albert passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, at the age of 89. A dedicated serviceman, accomplished pilot, lifelong adventurer, and cherished family man, David lived a life full of purpose, discovery, and quiet joy.
Born in Riverside, California, David graduated from Riverside High School before attending UCLA on a U.S. Navy scholarship. He went on to serve with distinction as a Naval aviator, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Stationed at Barber’s Point, Hawaii, with squadron VR-21, David flew missions across the Pacific and retired from active duty in 1964.
In 1965, David launched a long and storied career with Pan American World Airways. From 1968 to 1988, he was based in Berlin, Germany, piloting international routes across the globe and volunteering for Rest and Recuperation (R&R) flights into Vietnam. He later joined Delta Airlines in 1991, continuing to fly until his retirement in 2003.
David’s passion for aviation extended far beyond the cockpit. He mentored a young aspiring pilot, Eric Chayet, generously sharing his time, experience, and insight. What began as guidance grew into a lifelong friendship-a reflection of David’s generosity and the deep connections he nurtured throughout his life and career. •
In 1992, David married Joyce Bell, and together they made their home in Tiburon, California. Their house, nestled beside open space, brought David endless joy as he watched deer, coyotes, and birds from the windows. He was a fun-loving and devoted husband, a deeply cherished stepfather to Marc Malnekoff (Julie), Mara Malnekoff (Gregg), and Marnie Malnekoff, and a proud grandfather to Beck and Avi Franklin.
David and Joyce shared a deep passion for travel, journeying together to far-flung destinations including the Galapagos Islands, Tonga, and even riding the rails from Beijing to Moscow. In 2008, they embarked on a memorable round-the-world cruise just one of many adventures that defined their life together.
A nature lover at heart, David frequently hiked with local groups, reveling in the beauty of the outdoors. He was also an active and engaged member of his community, joining the Rotary Club of Tiburon and serving as its president from 2009 to 2010. He volunteered with the Broom Busters of Tiburon, helping to remove invasive plants and preserve the natural landscape he so loved.
David had a deep love for music. He played the guitar and had a beautiful singing voice that brought joy to those around him. Whether entertaining friends or simply strumming at home, his music was a source of connection and comfort. He continued to play well
into his 80s, his voice and guitar remaining steady companions throughout the years.
A lifelong learner, David’s curiosity knew no bounds. At age 60, he took up karate, eventually earning his 4th-degree black belt by 74-a testament to his discipline, humility, and inner strength. He was also fluent in several languages, including Spanish, German, and French-a talent he began developing in school and honed throughout his years abroad. His multilingualism allowed him to connect effortlessly across cultures and left a lasting impression on those who met him.
David will be remembered for his deep sense of service, his adventurous spirit, his boundless curiosity, and the love he gave so generously to his family and community. His was a life well-lived-rich with meaning, filled with laughter, and marked by quiet strength. He leaves behind memories that will be forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.