David Paul Glubetich

David Paul Glubetich, of Grass Valley, CA, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Penelope; his children Kathleen, Michelle, Steven, Debra, Jon, Erick, Valerie, and Todd; and his grandchildren Declan, Delaney, Jacob, Sammy, Elyse, and Eliana. Born on November 15, 1937, in Oakland, CA, David was the first son of Jean Elizabeth (Douglass) and Paul Rialto Glubetich. He graduated from Oakland Technical High School and went on to become the first in his family to earn a college degree, receiving a Journalism degree from San Jose State University. His early career included serving as Executive Manager of the Oakland Jaycees and later becoming the first full time manager of the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. Drawn to entrepreneurship, he entered the real estate world at a young age and eventually purchased Wells Realty in Pleasant Hill. Over the years, he authored several real estate books (including a top seller “The Monopoly Game”) and owned and operated Impact Publishing Company from 1974 to 1986. David was a family man at his core—an author, a dreamer, and someone who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had an unwavering optimism that carried him through every challenge, and he never stopped imagining what was possible. He loved photography, writing, camping, and above all, food—an enthusiasm he inherited from his mother and nurtured throughout his life. He was always thinking about his next great meal. When his children were young, David delighted in taking them on road trips, camping adventures, and picnics. He cherished the outdoors and, during the 1970s and 80s, spent treasured time at the family cabin in Big Trees, CA, hiking along the river and relaxing at the community clubhouse. A passionate sports fan, he rooted fiercely for the Oakland Raiders and A’s, and he enjoyed coaching several of his children’s soccer teams. In 2002, David and his wife Penny settled in the Nevada City/Grass Valley area, where he rediscovered his love of writing. He published political articles and wrote a book celebrating his lifelong affection for German Shepherds—a breed he adored and owned many times over. In his later years, he found peace in the mountains, taking long walks by the river with his beloved dog Bogart. His happiest moments in his final days were spent going to the movies, cooking for his family, sitting in the sun, and calling each of his children just to hear their voices. At David’s request, no formal service will be held. His family will gather privately in the near future to honor the remarkable man he was and the many ways he touched their lives.

David Paul Glubetich

November 15, 1937 - June 2, 2026