David Michael Elias, age 57, passed away May 27, 2026 in Phoenix, AZ. David was born on June 29, 1968, in Pomona, CA. He was a 1986 Garey High School graduate, where he met his future wife and mother of his kids, Sonia. Their story began his senior year, and after a month of persistence, countless phone calls, and his trademark smooth-talking charm, Sonia finally agreed to a date. In 1992, David left his hometown and planted his roots in Bullhead City, AZ. Shortly thereafter, he and Sonia were married on August 29, 1992. It was in Bullhead City that many came to know him as “Coach David.” What may have seemed like a small decision at the time would ultimately shape the future of his family and leave a lasting impact on his community. Two years later, they welcomed their first child, Monique, then their second daughter, Desiree, and finally their third child, David Jr. David was known for his hard work, dedication to the field and to his family. Although he loved to banter and was always quick with a joke, he was someone that everyone could count on for six years, David coach girls soccer team at Mojave high school he took great pride in having the opportunity to coach his two daughters. In 2014 he began coaching the boys team, allowing him the privilege of coaching his son as well. It was during that time that he met Head Coach Matt Camacho-or as David simply called him, “Coach”. David came to count on Coach not only as a friend but also as a brother. Throughout the last few years, David had the privilege of watching all three of his children marry and start families of their own. He leaves behind four grandchildren who adored their Tata, and what a privilege it was for all of us to witness how deeply they were loved by him. David reminded us to slow down and smell the roses, to appreciate the simple things in life, and to never take a moment for granted. As David always said when something went wrong, “It’s just another Thursday.” He brought such a light into all of our lives, and that type of light can never truly be extinguished. It lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, the players he coached, and the countless lives he touched along the way.
Funeral services will take place on June 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mountain View Church, 4815 Hunt Hwy, San Tan Valley, AZ 85144.