On April 3, 2026, the Santa Cruz Mountains lost an artist, craftsman, baker, and a beloved father. David Blackwolf passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, a passion for nature, and his two children - Ayla (22) and Odin (15).

To know David was to know a gentle soul who could find the beauty in a wild mushroom or the perfect golden edge on a butter cookie. He was a man of the redwood coast and a familiar face in the community, from the trails of Felton to the streams of Boulder Creek. David’s heart was also rooted in the Lake Country of Wisconsin where he grew up, with family and old friends who remember his boisterous spirit and love of life. 

The last few years brought their share of challenges, as David navigated shifts in health after a heart attack several years ago, and in the artisan business world. Through it all, he remained a man of deep aspirations. He was working to make the most of what he had, always looking toward the horizon and the secure, bright future he wanted to ensure for his children. David’s greatest project wasn't one made of wood or flour - it was wanting a beautiful life for Ayla and Odin. 

With David’s sudden passing, that future is now in need of support. The children are with their mother at their home in Santa Cruz, Ayla is working locally and living at home with her family, and Odin is a freshman in high school, surrounded by the community he’s known all his life. 

We are launching this fund as an invitation to those David loved so much. We want to help finish what David started: ensuring that Odin can finish his high school years with stability and that both children have the resources they need to move into their next chapters with confidence.

How You Can Help

Your contributions will serve as a bridge for Ayla and Odin, assisting with:

Immediate Stability: Helping the family maintain their home while they navigate this transition.

Odin’s Path: Building a fund for Odin’s education and the milestones of his remaining high school years.

Honoring David: David’s funeral home expenses have been covered. A small portion of donations will go to a celebration of life for David that reflects his deep connection to the people he loved so dearly.  

David lived with a quiet pride and a big heart. By standing with Ayla and Odin, we are honoring the man he was and the father he always strived to be.

With sincere gratitude,

The Family of David Blackwolf (Muschinski)