David Maestas

David Maestas, 63, passed away peacefully at home on August 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.

Born on May 3, 1962, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, David was raised in Cuarteles, where his lifelong love of music first took root. As a child of six years old, he discovered his passion for music—a spark that would grow into a defining part of his life. He was the beloved son of the late Juan and Mary Maestas and grew up in a large and close-knit family with his siblings: Isabel Chavez (Isaac), John Maestas (Amanda), Rosie Maestas, Dolores Martinez (Jake), and Ruben Maestas (Lilly), with David being the middle child.

David was a proud graduate of Española Valley High School and later served his country in the U.S. Army for four years. Upon returning home, his passion for music led him to become known as the "one-man band," captivating audiences with his unique sound and deep musical soul. He later formed the Dave Maestas Band, performing alongside family members and bringing joy to countless community events.

David’s music wasn’t just a talent—it was a gift he freely shared. Whether it was a fundraiser, a school dance, a graduation, or simply a friend who wanted to 'jam out,' David was always there, guitar in hand and heart open.

Outside of music, David found peace and joy in the great outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and camping—any chance to be in nature was time well spent. Whether it was a quiet morning by the river or a weekend trip into the mountains, he always felt most at home under the open sky. He also had a talent for building and fixing just about anything. A true jack of all trades, David was the one everyone called when something needed to be done—always ready with his tools, a solution, and a smile.

One of the most enduring stories of David’s life was his love with Annette, whom he first met in high school. Though life took them in different directions for a time, fate brought them back together years later—and they remained by each other's side for the past 27 years. Annette was not only David’s partner in life but his unwavering support system, especially during his battle with cancer. Her love, strength, and dedication were a constant comfort to David, and she stood faithfully by him through every moment, encouraging his music and caring for him with extraordinary grace and devotion.

David was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Ashley Maestas, his parents Juan and Mary Maestas, mother-in-law Lusita Varela and siblings Isabel Chavez and John Maestas.

He is survived by his loving wife Annette, his son Darren Maestas, stepdaughter Desiree Chavez (Tim), and his cherished grandchildren: Estrella, Abigail Eliana, Adriana, Tatiana, and Jacob. He also leaves behind his siblings Rosie Maestas, Dolores Martinez (Jake), and Ruben Maestas (Lilly), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved him dearly.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate hospice nurses who cared for David in his final days, as well as to the dedicated nurses from Giving Home Health Care and Enchanted Sky Hospice who supported him along his journey. Your kindness, comfort, and care made a lasting difference in David’s life and brought peace to his family during difficult times.

Services for David Maestas will be held as follows:

On Monday, August 25, 2025, a Public Viewing will be held at 5:30 pm, with a Rosary to follow at 6:00 pm in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM.

On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, a Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, with Burial to follow at12:30 pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Following the burial, the family invites all who knew and loved David to join them for a meal and celebration of his life at Cities of Gold Casino.

Pallbearers: Issac Chavez, Manny Martinez, Darren Maestas, Tim Herrera, Mike Chavez, Damien Padilla, Ryan Martinez and Chantel Maestas.

Honorary Pallbearers:

In honor of David’s memory, the family asks that you simply take a moment to play a song, think of him, and share his music with someone who needs it.

The family of David Maestas has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477