CORONA, CA - David Allen McDougall, Founder and President of AFI Executive Search, tragically passed away at the age of 64 on Friday, October 26, 2018. He leaves behind a lasting legacy within the recruiting industry and beyond.
The oldest of five siblings, McDougall and his twin were born in Seattle, Washington, on June 27, 1954 to parents Don and Byra McDougall. The family soon relocated to the heart of California’s agricultural community, which allowed McDougall to grow his appreciation for the food industry. McDougall went on to attend New Mexico State University, where he received a full ride scholarship for swimming and competed at an Olympic level. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1980.
After graduating, McDougall began his career as a manager at Texas supermarket chain, Furr’s. Due to his knowledge of the industry and his charismatic nature, McDougall was approached by a Dallas recruiting firm, which eventually led to the founding of his own recruiting company, AFI Search.
McDougall founded AFI (Associates for the Food Industry) in 1989 to recruit and place executives for retailers such as Albertsons, WinCo, Sprouts Farmers Market, Whole Foods, Gelson’s, and many more.
“Dave was able to see the forest, the trees and beyond to the castle where everyone wins. I spoke to Dave at least once per day and always it was important, topical and allowed me to gain perceptive. I will really miss Dave; it is like a chunk of my world is gone,” said David Adams, Founder of Adams Marketing and Consulting.
Ed LeVassuer, Vice President of Oceanitan, added, "As everyone in this industry that met David could attest to, David set himself apart from all other consultants and job search companies. This was due to his personal involvement in each potential candidates job experience and qualifications, but their own personal life. He truly felt this was just as important because he knew exactly what any potential job opportunity or placement would require of each candidate. David will be extremely missed throughout the industry for many years to come. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. We are all better today that we had met Dave in our lifetime whether it was professional or personal.”
McDougall married the love of his life, Erika, in Lake Tahoe, California, in January 1989. David has three children: Jeremy, Devon, and Lauren. He was very active in his community, serving as Chairman for the City of Corona’s Parks and Recreation City for seven years. McDougall was also a respected soccer coach for AYSO and Corona United Soccer Club.
McDougall enjoyed spending time engaging in outdoor activities such as cycling, fishing, and camping. One of his favorite pastimes was to be with his wife Erika walking their two Mastiffs, Jackson and Gus.
This was an incredible and unique man, loved so much not only by family and friends but by everyone he encountered throughout his life. His memory will last forever in the hearts of all that knew him.
McDougall is survived by his wife, Erika McDougall, and his children: son Jeremy McDougall, son Devon McDougall, and daughter Lauren McDougall.
The Celebration of Life services are scheduled for January 13, 2019 in Yorba Linda, CA. The family asks in lieu of flowers that donations can be made to The American Heart Association or to the family’s gofundme account.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the McDougall family during this time.
