David Keith Oesch

David Keith Oesch Sr at the age of 74 went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior the evening of Sunday April 30, 2023. He fought an eight- year battle with Alzheimer’s and never once complained. David was born November 6, 1948 to Emil and Helen Oesch in Bakersfield, CA, and was the youngest of 4 children. David is survived by his wife of 54 years, Deborah Oesch and his three children; David Jr (Trish), Suzanne (Justin Williamson), and Sarah Blasdell (Bryan) all of Bakersfield, CA; 5 grandchildren Addison Oesch, Bremen Oesch, Allison Williamson, Brayden Blasdell and Colton Blasdell. David is also survived by his sisters Judy Clark (Richard) of Livermore, CA, Sharon Yazak (Dan) of Billings, MT, sister in-law Patricia Belcher (Ken) of Bakersfield, CA, his uncle Gary Oesch (Shirley) of Bakersfield, CA and numerous nieces and nephews. David is preceded in death by his parents Emil and Helen Oesch, sister Patsy Oesch, and father and mother in-law Jasper and Marjorie Neeld.

David attended East Bakersfield High School and graduated in 1966. He began working for the Kern County Fire Department in 1967 where he served for 50 years. He also served in the United States Army Reserve during the Vietnam War as a radio mechanic. David married his wife Deborah in 1968 and they began their life’s journey together in Bakersfield. David led a life of service to the Lord, his family and the fire department. David’s service to the Lord began at First Southern Baptist Church and continued as an early member at Valley Baptist. His helping hand to the church included serving on the bus ministry, which he loved. David was an avid outdoorsman who loved to camp and fish. He loved spending time with his wife and family including traveling with Debbie and chasing his grandkids to their sporting events. David carried the “tinkerer” gene, always loving to work on projects. He could fix anything and was always available to help anyone in need.

David was loved and will be missed by his family and his beloved dog, Max aka “Matt”. We rejoice he is at peace and home with Jesus.

Visitation will be Thursday May 11th, 2023, at Peters Funeral Home 844 E Lerdo Hwy, Shafter, CA from 5-8PM. Graveside services will take place at 10AM on Friday May 12, 2023, at Shafter Cemetery, 18662 S Central Valley Hwy. Pastor Phil Neighbors will officiate. Reception to follow immediately after graveside service at Valley Baptist Church (Multi-Purpose room) located at 4800 Fruitvale Avenue.

The family welcomes memorial contributions made to Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County (www.ADAKC.org) or text “IMO” to 366283. Donations can also be made to The Kern County Fireman’s Welfare and Benefit Association Inc P.O. Box 81444 Bakersfield, CA 93380.