David Alexander Avila Graves

David Alexander Avila Graves of The Dalles, Alex to his friends, passed away October 12, 2026, at OHSU Hospital in Portland.

Alex was born in The Dalles December 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 estranged spouse, his children Vanessa and David Jr, Father, Raul Avila; Grandfather, Ron Graves; brothers, Aaron Graves and Adrian Graves; Aunt, Rebecca Tobias; Uncle, Mike Graves, 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 will be held on Thursday, October 14, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home in The Dalles, Oregon.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 15, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church in The Dalles, followed by a Graveside Services and a reception in the Parish Center.

Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.