Jose David Carranza
Obituary

Jose David Carranza, lovingly known as David Carranza, passed away on February 28, 2026, at the age of 77, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.

Born in Santa Ana, El Salvador, to Francisco Javier Polanco and Rosa Aminta Carranza, David later made Los Angeles his home for more than 50 years. It was there that he built a life defined by perseverance, independence, and devotion to family. He was married earlier in life and later divorced.

David began his working life as a welder, a trade that reflected his strength and determination. In 1986, he opened Virgil Video in Los Angeles. What began as a VHS video rental store grew into a beloved neighborhood business and local retail staple. His love of film and storytelling was at the heart of the business, and the store became a place of connection, conversation, and community.

Music was one of David’s greatest joys. He had a deep love for classic rock, especially artists such as The Beatles, The Who, Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Queen to name a few. He was also an avid sports fan, proudly supporting all Los Angeles sports teams. His greatest passion, however, was fútbol. His favorite local LA fútbol team was LAFC, and he especially enjoyed watching matches live alongside his daughter. These moments became cherished memories for them both.

In his later years, David was lovingly cared for by his daughter, Rosalyn Rochac-Finnegan, who served not only as his caretaker but also as his unwavering advocate. Their bond was rooted in deep love, loyalty, and mutual respect. Through her devotion, he was always protected, supported, and surrounded by care.

David is survived by his beloved daughter, Rosalyn Rochac-Finnegan, his son-in-law Mark Finnegan, and his cherished grandchildren, Georgia George (26), Guido Cuccia (26), and Jeffrey Rochac (18), who brought him great pride and joy. He is also survived by his siblings Julio, Cecilia, Marta, Marina, and Ana, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Elena, Francisco, Antonio, Besy, Inez, and a stillborn sibling also named Jose.

David will be remembered for his resilience, his love of music, film, and sport, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted father whose legacy lives on through his family.

Services are private, and his remains will remain with his daughter.

From his daughter:

Daddy, the emptiness you leave in my heart is overwhelming. Thank you for loving me and for being my father. I will miss you for the rest of my life.