David M. Cheney, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Modesto, California, on September 17, 2026.

Dave was born March 30, 1958, in Stockton, California, to Jack and Gerry Cheney, who preceded him in death. Dave lived a life defined by love, connection, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others.

From an early age, Dave had a deep and lifelong love of sports. He was happiest outside, playing in the neighborhood and sharing his love for athletics with those around him. Raised in Modesto, he played baseball at Bel Passi and went on to play baseball, football, and basketball at Beyer High School, where his passion for sports and people began to shape the life he would later build. He began his coaching career at Hughson High School where he had the privilege of coaching alongside his father, creating special memories that brought together two generations who shared a love for the game and for helping young people grow. He also shared a special bond with his mother, Gerry, and treasured the Saturdays they spent antique shopping together.

His passion for athletics flourished as he continued coaching baseball and football at Turlock High School for approximately 25 years, sharing not only his knowledge of the games but also the lessons that sports can teach about perseverance, teamwork, character, and life. For Dave, coaching was another way of investing in young people and helping them become stronger.

Dave graduated from Stanislaus State University and went on to dedicate his life to education, teaching at Turlock High School. Teaching was never simply a profession for him—it was his calling. He cared deeply about his students. He listened to them. He encouraged them. Most importantly, he made them feel seen and heard. Dave understood that sometimes what a young person needed most was simply someone who would take the time to listen and believe in them. Dave devoted his life to building meaningful relationships with his students. He wanted them to learn academically, but he also wanted them to learn life skills, grow as people, and become the best versions of themselves.

Dave's coaching buddies also held a special place in his life. Through years of coaching and shared experiences, he built friendships that went far beyond the field. These were people who shared his passion for the game and understood the joy Dave found in coaching, mentoring, and connecting with others. He especially enjoyed the camaraderie, laughter, and friendship that came with poker nights with his fellow coaches and friends.

In 2007, Dave married the love of his life, Roberta. Together, they built a marriage filled with love, laughter, family, and shared adventures. They took up golfing together, enjoyed traveling to the mountains, shared their love of professional sports, and spontaneous trips to the casino. Dave embraced his role as a father to his stepchildren, Brandon and Alissa, with love and devotion. He was there for them, supported them, and took great pride in the people they became.

Dave's three grandchildren were among his greatest enjoyments. Being a grandfather brought him endless joy, and he cherished every moment with them. He took great delight in watching them grow, sharing in their lives, and creating memories that will remain with them forever.

Dave leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond his career. His legacy lives in the students he taught, the athletes he coached, the friendships he built, and the family he loved so deeply.

He had a full heart, and he gave that heart freely.

Dave will be deeply missed by his wife, Roberta; his son, Brandon (Kristen) Wilkinson; his daughter, Alissa (Brett) Hill; his three grandchildren; his sister, Kim (David) Ekholm; numerous nieces and nephews; his many friends; and the countless students and athletes whose lives he touched.

He will be remembered not only for what he taught, but for how he made people feel.

Dave's love, kindness, and unwavering belief in others will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 1660 Arbor Way Turlock, CA, on Saturday, October 3rd at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dave's honor may be made to Turlock High School Scholarship Fund (memo Dave Cheney Scholarship) at 1600 E. Canal Drive, Turlock, CA, in support of an annual scholarship established by his family in Dave's memory. The scholarship will honor his lifelong dedication to students and athletics by supporting graduating students involved in football and baseball, two of the passions that meant so much to Dave throughout his life.