David J. Muffly Obituary

December 15, 2025

art ludwig wrote a sympathy message

“So surprised and saddened to hear of Daves passing..."A giant oak has fallen" I am privileged to know Dave both professionally, through the dance community in Santa Barbara, in which he was very active, and as a friend. Professionally, he is a visionary w/o peer, generous with his unique knowledge and perspective. He was a regular at dance, always clapping with me, or playing claves. I never missed an opportunity for myself and my kids to absorb his knowledge at a shared meal. —Art Ludwig”

December 5, 2025

Chris M. Balz wrote a sympathy message

“R.I.P., great person for our planet Earth and the trees that make it good.”

December 1, 2025

Alejandra Cervantes wrote a sympathy message

“I was lucky to have met Dave, he was a bright individual who was looking out for the environment and sharing his knowledge. He has inspired many to be more selective about their species, and perhaps to grow their own trees from seed. The work and knowledge he shared will stay with us. May all the trees that he grew from seed, planted or transplanted stay resilient in his name. Dave established many solid roots on earth! May he rest in peace!”

November 28, 2025

Rebecca Schwartz wrote a sympathy message

“I will miss Dave. He was on the cutting edge of urban forestry for all his career. He created seed to nursery to street pipelines and sought out climate-smart species. We collaborated on an article in City Trees and he spoke at the Urban Ecology Collaborative. Be with the oaks, Dave.”

November 26, 2025

Jason Dewees wrote a sympathy message

“Dave was a crucial contributor to California horticulture, both in his work planting trees and introducing new species and hybrids, and in his way of thinking and discussing trees for our warming climate. His work on the Apple II campus trees also expanded the use and awareness of mesh-pot production of woody, drought-tolerant plant material, a major leap forward in California horticulture that has a huge potential to enrich our cultivated tree canopy. He was a brilliant man, humble and humane.”

November 26, 2025

Rose Epperson wrote a sympathy message

“Dave was an incredible gift to the arboricultural community. So well versed and passionate for oaks and other trees. He generously shared his knowledge with us all through the years. I speak for many when I say he will be missed. My sympathy and prayers. 🌳”