David Paul Tokoph

David Paul Tokoph, 64, took his final flight to God’s Kingdom on the evening of Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 20:13 p.m. He was a citizen of the world, resident of South Africa, loving and devoted husband and father, grandfather, brother and faithful friend to many across the globe. David entered into the world on June 21, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois, the 5th son of Richard Adrian Tokoph and Margaret Florence Falzone, stepmother Lynne Tokoph and stepfather Edward Rootes. As a child, David developed an affinity for airplanes that ultimately spanned into a 46 year-long career, as a well- known and highly repected Global Aviation Entrepreneur. David first obtained his pilot’s license at the age of 18. He held his Airline Transport Pilot License and was proficient in many types of aircraft, including propeller and jet aircraft. He was an aviation fanatic that traveled the world doing what he loved. In 2009, he set a world record for speed over a recognized course. Having been the first and only to fly from Russia to El Paso, former Mayor John Cook proclaimed March 10, 2009 as “Captain David Tokoph Day.” David was a charitable man with a strong belief in paying it forward. He funded many improvement projects in villages across Africa. In 1974, David married Carolyn Denise Ortega of Albuquerque, New Mexico and together they shared 41 loving years of marriage; traveling the world and raising their children. For David, family was paramount. He is survived by his children; Gina Marie and husband Hector Maldonado, Flor de Daniela and husband Jason Roberts, Alejandra Carolyn, David Paul Jr. and wife Anne, Haleea Lindsey. Additionally, David served as the guardian of Robert Daniel. He was the loving and guiding grandfather to eight grandchildren; Christopher (“#1 Grandson”), Hector (“Junior”), Andrew (“Drew”), Liam (“Boris”), Max (“Maximiliano”), Liliana (“Liliana”), David Paul III (“Davidcito”) and Chloe (“Coco”). David was also the loving brother of Richard, Thomas, Dana, Gary, Deborah, Cynthia, Dennis, David and Angel. In additon to having a successful career in Aviation, flying was David’s passion and hobby. He often said, “some people golf, I fly planes.” His family finds solace knowing that he passed doing what he loved. His passion for flying and tremendous skill resulted in the survival of his passenger and friend, Angelo Cossi. Visitation will be held Monday, August 24, 2015 from 5:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with the Holy Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home-West. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 400 W. Sunset Road. Inurnment will be held at a later date by family. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West, 480 N. Resler Dr. Please visit our online guestbook at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net