David Ellis Crofton, 87, of Huntington Beach, California, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 19, 1939, David lived a life defined by service, dedication, and devotion to those he loved. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1968. The values of honor, integrity, and commitment that he developed during his military service remained with him throughout his life and were evident in all that he did.

As a young man, David was active in his high school community. He played in the high school band, sang in a school quartet, and was a member of the high school basketball team. These experiences helped shape his lifelong appreciation for teamwork, friendship, and community.

David enjoyed many hobbies and interests throughout his life. He was an avid golfer and bowler who cherished both the competition and the friendships formed through those activities. He was also a talented woodworker who took pride in creating projects with his hands. One of his greatest joys was coaching his two daughters in soccer, sharing not only his love of the game but also lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Above all else, David was a devoted family man. He found his greatest happiness in the company of his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family. His steady presence, caring heart, wisdom, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

David was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Leroy Crofton (1994); his mother, Irma Lorraine (Atherton) Crofton (2011); and his sister, Nancy Ann (Crofton) Shipp.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Lea (Stralow) Crofton; his daughters, Kimberly Lynn (Crofton) Bowling and her husband, Douglas M. Bowling, and Kelli Lynette (Crofton) Tucker and her husband, Robert A. Tucker; his cherished grandchildren, Amber Lynette (Bowling) Wagner and her husband, Donald Eric Wagner, Aubrianne Elizabeth Bowling, Jared Daniel Tucker and his wife, Samantha (Shiroke) Tucker, and Nathan Michael Tucker; and his sisters, Sherry (Crofton) Subia, Deborah (Crofton) Emmert, and Dianne (Crofton) Gunderson.

David's legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, guidance, and example. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at O'Connor Mortuary, 25301 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills, California 92653.

Though David has departed from this world, the memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come.