It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of District Director Colonel David E. Raley, USAF, Retired, on Sunday, June 2, 2024, following a short illness.
Director Raley served our community faithfully with firm fiscal responsibility and accountability since December 4, 2009. In addition to his tenure on the Board of Directors, Director Raley served as a representative on the California Special Districts Association Fiscal and Audit Committees.
“He was my go-to guy for finance and budget. I could be assured that he had eagle eyes on the numbers. He saw things in a visionary way because he was such an independent thinker,” says Melody McDonald, District Board President. “My fellow directors and I will miss him greatly.”
Prior to his tenure with the District, Director Raley served a long and distinguished career as an Air Force military officer and brought to the District a host of strong leadership skills, including clearly defined and communicated expectations, a demand for excellence in performance for those under his charge, patriotism, and a devotion to public service and duty. Following his retirement from military service, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of Norton Credit Union for nearly 15 years.
Director Raley’s inquiring mind, fairness in his evaluation of people and circumstances, collegiality among colleagues, and willingness to address difficult or unpopular issues served the District well.
“We are mourning the loss of Director Raley,” said Betsy Miller Vixie, the District’s General Manager. “I cherish the insightful and instructive lessons that I learned working with him for the past five years. His commitment to sustainable stewardship left an indelible mark on me and our organization, and his visionary leadership for water and environmental conservation in the Inland Empire will continue to guide and inspire us.”
In memory of David E. Raley and his wife, Diane, their children have established an endowed scholarship at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California. Director Raley served as a Director of the Crafton Hills College Foundation Board for 29 years. His wife was an alumna of Crafton Hills College. All donations will contribute to the endowment, providing an annual student scholarship.
A memorial service for Director Raley will be held at Emerson Bartlett funeral home (703 Brookside Ave in Redlands) on June 29 at 10:30 AM, with a potluck afterwards.