David Rumaldo Gusman

David Rumaldo Gusman passed away peacefully on May 15th, 2024 with family by his side. David was born in Santa Barbara on August 22nd, 1956 to Frank Sanchez Gusman and Virginia Luera Gusman. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend.

He grew up in his grandmother’s restaurant, La Paloma Café, which also served as his first job. He excelled on the swim team at Santa Barbara High School where he proudly kept a record for his butterfly stroke. He graduated in 1975 and eventually worked at Jordano’s and in various restaurants in town such as the Tee Off Restaurant & Lounge, where he served as Kitchen Manager for ten years. He also spent many years as an all-around handyman with a remarkable ability to fix just about anything with a work ethic that was unmatched.

David was a kindhearted soul who was devoted to building a hospitable and welcoming home for his family and cherishing his time with many friends. He loved working on his car, gardening, and surrounding himself with loved ones at the family home on the Mesa. A typical weekend with David involved barbequing tri-tip on a beautiful sunny Santa Barbara day with Carlos Santana and Steely Dan playing in the background. David appreciated good music and was fond of going to the SB County Bowl where he saw Bob Marley play several times. He always had his favorite music playing whether he was working in his yard or cooking one of his many famous dishes like fettuccini carbonara. He was also a great whistler and could whistle along to anything or even make his own tunes up, he really did whistle while he worked! He had a soft spot in his heart for pets, and loved his many dogs, chickens and every animal in between.

Out of the many roles he had, the most important one he valued was being a father. He worked hard to ensure his family was provided with a warm home and all the important principals to succeed in life. He will be deeply missed and his legacy will forever be carried on with his children and grandchildren.

David is survived by his children, Jessica Gusman, Monica Diosdado and her husband Noe Jr., and Christopher Gusman and his husband John Stephens-Gusman. He also leaves behind his siblings Frances Gusman and Raymond Gusman, and grandchildren Bailey, Brennan, Mia, Mariah, Bella, and Benecio.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date.