David Tuttle. Courtesy photo.

David Harold Tuttle, born Oct. 14, 1945, in Ukiah, California, to Audrey and Harold Tuttle, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife of 58 years, Melodye, and their daughters, Debra, Jenni, and Tammi.

Dave lived with passion, grit and a determined spirit that shaped a remarkable life.

He leaves behind his daughters' husbands, Brent Holdenried, Tim McCarthy, and Clay VanHousen; eight grandchildren, Kacie, Mitchell, Carson, Carli, John, Evan, Joey and Gene; step-grandchildren, Tyler and Ryan, through his daughter Tammi's marriage; eight great-grandchildren, Hudson, Isabella, Emersyn, Knox, Addilyn, Riley, Wyatt, and Olive; and his twin sister, Ruby Elphick; brother-in-law Richard Elphick and nephew Aaron Johnson, who was like a son to him.

A proud patriot, Dave cherished his country, held dear his friends and family, and was ever ready to aid those in need.

At age 11, Dave faced the tragic loss of his father, Harold. With resolve beyond his years, he became the man of the house, managing the family sheep and hay operation, ensuring its success through his tireless work ethic. This loss was the quintessential turning point in his life, as he overcame and endured hardships.

The Rohrbough family helped raise him after his father's passing; they were indeed his family. He spent many years praising and thanking them for the kindness they shared with him. Without their love and support during his challenging youth, he might not have become the man we all grew to love and respect.

A gifted athlete, Dave excelled on the gridiron, danced with grace and style, always a crowd favorite with a plethora of partners. His quick wit and humor lightened any room, while early boxing lessons from his father equipped him to prevail in Covelo's occasional fist fights. His passion for fast cars, good horses, and loyal dogs embodied his spirited country roots.

An accomplished farmer and rancher, Dave worked at the Butcher and Nelson Ranches in Ukiah, before finding his calling at the Valley Oaks Ranch in Hopland. There, he transformed the ranch into a flourishing wine grape and pear operation, earning industry-wide respect.

He and his family thrived, sharing his love for horses, ranching, and farming. He cherished memories of team roping with his daughters, cheering them at rodeos, high school sporting events, and their FFA activities.

As a proud grandfather, he avidly supported his grandchildren's sports, he loved telling them how he used to play the game. In 1985, Dave and his family left the Valley Oaks Ranch, he later joined Beringer Vineyards, where he pioneered the first Lake County Red Hills Appellation vineyard. His expertise set a high standard, mentoring others, winning awards, and leaving a lasting legacy as an industry pioneer.

In his final years, Dave faced countless health issues with extraordinary courage, never complaining, always fighting to stay with his family just a bit longer. His strength and spirit inspired all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held on July 6 at 2 p.m. at Fritch Hall, Lake County Fairgrounds, 401 Martin St., Lakeport, California.

Family and friends will provide a late lunch featuring his favorite foods and spirits. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a high school FFA (Future Farmers of America) program in his name.

David Harold Tuttle's steadfast spirit and enduring legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.