It is with heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of David M. Vinatieri, age 76, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, great-grandfather and loyal friend. Born in Yankton, South Dakota, to Albert and Rose Vinatieri, David’s journey through life was marked by honor, service, and unwavering love.
David’s early years were shaped by his education at Sacred Heart Catholic School. In 1969, he answered the call of duty and joined the Air Force, embarking on a distinguished military career that spanned over two decades and several continents. His commitment to service was unparalleled, and in 1993 he was honorably retired as a Master Sergeant.
Following his military service, David continued to serve his country by working as a private government contractor as a Digital Engineer. His professionalism, integrity, and tireless work ethic were evident to all who had the privilege of working with him.
David was an avid RC hobbyist, gamer, and movie enthusiast, but most enjoyed his time with family and friends.
He met the love of his life Josefa “Maria” Vinatieri, in 1970 and shared a wonderful marriage of 52 years. His legacy lives on through his daughter, Jenny and husband Elijah Muhl; son, David Vinatieri and wife, Tonya, and their families. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and found great joy in the role of being a grandfather to: Austin and wife Kayla, Brennan, DJ, Elias, Oliver and Ruby; and great-grandchildren: Everleigh and Maddox. Lovingly referred to as “Goompa”, his love for his family knew no bounds, and his memory will forever be cherished in their hearts.
David was preceded in passing by his brother: Tom Vinatieri and sister: Mary McKay. He is survived by his sister: Kathy Sawin and brother: Paul Vinatieri.
In the tapestry of his life, David’s love, kindness, and generosity threads all those he touched. Though he has departed, his spirit will forever guide and inspire us. As we bid farewell to our beloved David, let us take solace in the memories we shared and the love that will endure for eternity.
Lee Kennedy
9 Apr 2024Maria and family please know how much we care and how very sorry we are for your loss. Tom and I feel blessed to have met David. Sending many hugs and prayers.
Love,
Tom and Lee Kennedy
Catherine Rappaport
29 Apr 2024Our deepest sympathy to the family. All our best,
The Rappaport family
Steve Young
9 Apr 2024The Buckley SFB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for MSgt Vinatieri’s 24 years of service to our country in the Air Force. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Buckley SFB at 720-847-6693 or raobuckley@gmail.com. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Steve Young
Lt Col, USAF, Ret
Director, Buckley SFB RAO
Bruce B Blake
27 Apr 2024In the 70s Dave and I served together in the 5th Allied Tactical Airforce (NATO) near Verona, Italy. His family and ours became close friends during those years. Our families went separate ways after Italy. The USAF separated us but we kept in touch. We met his parents (Albert & Rose) when they came to visit while Dave and Maria were in Italy.
Albert told a story about he and a friend, a contractor. Albert and the friend had been close life long friends. The friend and Albert went to a job site for the USAF. The officer in charge told the friend that Albert would have to wait outside because the job was a government sensitive site. The friend said that ‘if Albert can’t come along he didn’t want the job.’ Albert was not left outside! Dave learned well from his dad. That was the kind of friend Dave was.
When we met in Las Vegas after we all retired from the USAF, Dave and Maria spoke of their children Davey and Jenny with pride and showed us pictures of the fine adults they had grown into. Davey was a Master Sergeant in the USAF, like his dad, and Jenny had a carrier that I don’t recall.
Jackie and my hearts go out to Maria, Davey, Jenny, and their extended family and friends. I was honored to call him friend.
With love from,
Bruce and Jackie Blake