David George Wesendunk
1946 - 2017
It is with great regret and sadness that we report David George Wesendunk, “Dunk” passed away April 7, at the age of 70, after a courageous battle with renal cell carcinoma. Born in San Francisco he was the fourth of four children to Philip and Pauline Wesendunk who preceded him in death. He was raised in the Sunset District and spent his early days playing ball in the streets near his house or Parkside and McCoppin Playground, or fishing at Muni Pier with his brothers. He matriculated at Lincoln High school where he played baseball for the Mustangs and later San Francisco State University where he took his decree in Psychology. He was employed with the SF Juvenile Probation Department in excess of 10 years working at Hidden Valley Ranch and Log Cabin as a counselor where his dedication helped many youngsters turn their lives around. Dave moved to Santa Rosa, CA where, for over 13 years, he owned, managed, and served as major entertainment at his bar and restaurant- The Rusty Putter- located at the Bennett Valley Golf Course. Following his father’s footsteps and love for the outdoors , he moved to Mi Wuk Village in Tuolumne County CA where Dave fished and explored the Sierra Mountains, it’s lakes, rivers and trails.
Dave had many pursuits over his 70 years. He “laced them up” at the SF Golden Gloves, only to be stopped by the “Tonga Kid” in the heavyweight division. A charter member of the Rocky-Moon Golf Classic. He was a world traveler, spending time and getting to know and experience citizens, customs and cultures of over 50 countries. An avid fisherman, he hooked and landed fish in six continents. As a world traveler he was a great story teller at home and abroad. Dave was preceded in death by his brothers Paul and Dick Wesendunk. He is survived by his brother John Wesendunk and his wife Vicki; six nieces and nephews Susan Kleidon (Mark), Richard T. Wesendunk (Tammy), David J. Wesendunk (Tami), Matthew Wesendunk, Diana Betanzo (Isaias) and Elyse Wesendunk; and 10 grand nieces and nephews.
An expression of special thanks to all at Stanford Health Care and Dave’s dear friend Janni Yuen. Friends and family are summoned and invited to appear and attend a Celebration of Dave’s Life Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 2:00 PM, at 1315 Bernal Avenue, Burlingame Ca. For further information please email to woodycharm@gmail.com.