David Robert Gaska

David Robert Gaska, aka Crocker D, age 48, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family and friends on January 8, 2021.  David was a lifelong resident of Ridgecrest, CA.  He was a 1990 graduate of Sherman E. Burroughs High School.  During his time in high school, David played football, baseball, golf, and basketball.  He went on to obtain an A.A. from Cerro Coso Community College in 1993 and then pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Management from the University of La Verne. David worked as a Support Department Supervisor for Alta One Credit Union for 7 years,  and as a Buyer for Searles Valley Minerals for 19 years until his passing.

David leaves behind his three children: Alyssa Smith (A.J. Smith), Shanna Gaska (Pablo Sosa), and Tyler Gaska;  two grandchildren: Merrick and Mayci Smith; his mother, Joan Gaska; sisters: Tracy Sherrick (Vincent) and Amy Ward (Martin); niece, Ashley Sherrick; nephews: Christopher Sherrick and Alex Ward. He also leaves behind the love of his life Erica Bengston, and her children Devon Dial, Devon's son Rory, Allison Dial, Michael Gray, Megan Gray, and Gavin Belcher.

David is preceded in death by his father Robert Gaska.

If David wasn't spending time with his family or working on a project for himself or others, he enjoyed camping, fishing and golfing. His athleticism and love of sports spilled into his life as a coach for many of his children's sports, especially baseball and football.

Of his many talents, David was a tremendous cook, both in the kitchen and on a BBQ. He knew how to cook for a crowd and always ensured no one went away hungry. The family relied on his meat cutting skills for large holiday gatherings. Known as "Mr. Fix-It", David had a passion for and great knowledge of the latest and greatest electronic gadgets.

This past summer, David and Erica purchased a large home together. In their short time there, they enjoyed hanging out in the pool and barbecuing with friends and family. David and Erica were looking forward to this new year as they were making plans to get married and travel.

Services for David will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Holland and Lyons Mortuary in Ridgecrest, CA.  The public viewing will begin at 1:00 pm, the Rosary at 2:00 pm, and a service to follow at 3:30 pm.