Remembering David L. Gaza, his generosity and love of Church

David L. Gaza, seated, and the St. John of the Cross choir in Orange Grove.
David L. Gaza, 64, passed away Jan. 8, and his wife San Juanita remembers his generosity everyday and wants others to do so as well. His was a life well lived, in service to his Church and his community. It is well that he be remembered, that he serve as a model for others.
 
In his heart of hearts Gaza was a musician. He had his own band, "The Gaza Express Band," which included his brothers. His music career was recognized and honored as he was inducted into the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame in January 2012.
 
It was through his love of music that he unselfishly served his Church.
 
"He gave his time and talent to serve the Lord," San Juanita Gaza, his wife of 35-years, said. "There were times that he would play and sing at three to four Masses on any given weekend. He would play at Sunday Masses, funerals and other special occasions and would not ask for any compensation..."
 
He was a choir director at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Alice for many years and also at St. John of the Cross in Orange Grove where he served as the music minister for 15-years. Gaza also served as a guitar instructor and taught music at many schools, including St. Elizabeth and St. Joseph Catholic Schools in Alice. His wife says Gaza enjoyed playing music for Mass at Christus Spohn in Alice where he also volunteered.
 
His wife remembers an occasion when Gaza had his right leg amputated below his knee at Christus Spohn Hospital in Alice on a Tuesday and on Sunday he informed the nurses he wanted to play and sing at the Mass in the hospital chapel.
 
"Father Jacob, who celebrates Mass at Christus Spohn in Alice was overwhelmed to see David there," San Juanita Gaza said.
 
His community of Alice remembered Gaza as a dedicated citizen. In July, the Alice City Council posthumously recognized him for his volunteerism. He organized the talent show for the Jim Wells County Fair and recorded many farewell speeches for the Jim Wells County Fair queen. Gaza was also an announcer for the Christmas parade and was president of the Fiesta Bandana for more 30-years.
 
"He truly gave his time and talent for any that would ask for it. He did these and more, the majority of his life," his wife said. 

Photo album contributed by San Juanita Gaza.