David Mendoza Prieto, born on August 9, 1968, in Odessa, Texas, passed away on August 21, 2026, in the same city he called home, leaving behind a life full of love, laughter, and a whole lot of personality.

David had the kind of presence that could fill a room without even trying, He was the kind of man who could turn an ordinary day into a story worth retelling, usually with a grin, a joke, and just enough mischief to keep everyone on their toes.

David earned his CDL and hazmat certification, and he took pride in his work and the responsibility that came with it. He knew how to handle business, but he also knew how to keep life from getting too serious. He had a natural sense of humor that made even the hardest days a little lighter, and he had a way of making people laugh when they needed it most.

He loved cars, especially low riders, and he appreciated them the way some people appreciate fine art. He was also an artist in his own right, with an eye for creativity and a heart that noticed beauty in the details. In the kitchen, he was just as impressive. He was an amazing cook, and anyone lucky enough to sit at his table knew that he did not just make food. He made memories. His meals had flavor, his personality had seasoning, and both were unforgettable.

David was also a kid at heart, and that part of him never faded. He loved buying things for his grandkids, nieces, and nephews whenever he went anywhere, as if every trip was an opportunity to become the best surprise-giver in the family. He was the kind of man who would walk into a store for one thing and walk out with gifts for half the family, because apparently leaving empty-handed was not in his DNA. He found joy in making the younger generation smile, and he did it with the kind of enthusiasm that made everyone laugh and feel loved at the same time.

He is survived by his three daughters, Audriana Hartwig and her husband Trinity Hartwig, Destiny Martinez and her husband Freddy Martinez, and Jasmin Prieto. He is also survived by his father, Elias Prieto; his siblings, Johnny Prieto and his wife Maria Prieto, Yvonne Prieto, and Annette Ayala; his grandchildren, Oliviah Hartwig, Elijah Hartwig, Noah Hatten and Eleanor Martinez; and his nieces and nephews, Jonathan Prieto, Sophia Ayala, Jacob Prieto, and Elena Prieto. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Prieto, who surely welcomed him with open arms.

David’s family will remember him for his humor, his creativity, and the way he made life feel a little brighter. He was a man who loved deeply and knew how to enjoy the ride, especially if the ride had good music, a nice car, and a little bit of attitude.

Though he is no longer here in body, his laughter, his stories, his cooking, his artistry, and his love for his family will continue to echo through the lives of those who knew him. David leaves behind a legacy built on love, laughter, and the kind of unforgettable spirit that never really leaves.

“Don’t forget to say I Love You BECAUSE There is a last time for everything” Tom Todd