Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
David Alexander Avila Graves of The Dalles, Oregon, Alex to his friends, passed away Oct. 12, 2026, at OHSU Hospital in Portland, Oregon. Alex was born in The Dalles on Dec. 5, 1995, to Diana Mary Graves and Raul Avila. He and his siblings attended St. Mary’s Academy in The Dalles in their early school years. Alex completed his GED and some college level classes at the local community college.
As a youngster he enjoyed cub scouts, soccer, and basketball. He really enjoyed longboarding and playing Xbox as well as hanging out with some of his good friends. Alex enjoyed cooking as a kid and gardening. He imagined himself becoming a world class chef. As it turned out he did become a culinary expert with a BBQ grill! Alex also was an outstanding fisherman and absolutely loved fishing.
He had many jobs throughout his life but ultimately enjoyed his time at the Sinclair gas station where he worked his way to and became the manager for several years. As an adult he enjoyed spending time with his children as well as fishing and barbecuing often. He loved taking his kids on weekend outings with a favorite destination being the Oregon Coast.
His humor was an acquired taste; he was always cracking jokes and in a good mood. His positive attitude always shined through no matter what the circumstances. Even in his hardest times of life, he was always the one cheering other people up.
He is survived by his spouse, Blanca Graves; his children Vanessa and David Jr.; father Raul Avila; grandfather Ron Graves; brothers Aaron Graves and Adrian Graves; aunt Rebecca Tobias; uncle Mike Graves; and many great aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and many friends who were truly like family. Alex was predeceased by his mother Diana Mary Graves in 2009, and grandmother Catherine Mary Graves in 2026.
A viewing was held Oct. 14 at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles. A funeral Mass was celebrated Oct. 15 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, The Dalles, followed by graveside services. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
Columbia Gorge News, Oct. 21, 2026
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