David Martin Thibaut

Napa native David Martin Thibaut born Friday January 13, 1956, who was not afraid of dying, passed away on March 28, 2026. 

He looked forward to being reunited with his parents Vernon H. and Nancy Thibaut, grandparents Paul and Mary Rannigan, Vernon E. and Ruth Thibaut and two of his favorite fur babies Keoki and Jeffrey.

David lived his entire life in Napa.  He attended Alta Heights Elementary, Silverado Jr. High and Napa High School, graduating class of 1974.

In his early career he worked for the Napa Town and Country Fair and then the Napa County Office of Education.  He then went into the hospitality industry working in reservations at Meadowood Resort and later at the Carneros Inn until his retirement.  Hospitality is where he really shined, insuring guests had a memorable experience providing above and beyond customer service.

He enjoyed traveling, some of his favorite places were Monterey, Bodega Bay, Cambria and Hearst Castle, where he could easily give the tours better than many tour guides. The ocean was his serene place. 

David was known for being generous, witty, sarcastic, protective, devoted and fiercely loyal to his family and dear friends.  He loved cars and attending car shows, watching classic TV shows knowing every line of each episode of the Golden Girls, gardening, barbecuing, cooking, planning and entertaining his loved ones.  His creative mind, and adventurous spirit, led him to creating his own recipes many becoming requested favorites.

He loved his family, dear friends and his pets.  

He sadly leaves behind his best friend and husband of 41 years Ron Custis, his sisters Linda (Mike) Stevenson, Lori Merkle (Allen Haaland).  Nieces Kelley Stevenson, Jessie (Neil) Barrett, Lyndi (Chris) Rosenau, and nephew Randy Merkle (Jody Sorenson).  Along with 4 great nieces and 2 great nephews.  David treasured his many close friends with Melody Davidson and Jennifer Gonzales holding a special place in his heart.

A Memorial Service will be held at Tulocay Funeral Home on Friday April 17th at 1 o’clock.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in David’s memory to your favorite charity.

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