David DeMatteo

David Barr DeMatteo, 67, of Bellingham, MA, formerly from Niantic, CT, passed away on July 28, 2023, at his home, following a recent cancer diagnosis. David, or Dave as he was affectionately known, was our beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend.

Dave is survived by his mother, Patricia DeMatteo, his brother, William Jr, and his companion, Ann Marie Brown, his sister Kim and her husband Joseph S. Dalton. He also leaves behind his nephew, Joseph W. Dalton and his wife Morgan (O'Reilly) Dalton, and their children Fiona and Patrick. In addition, he is survived by his aunt, Diana DeRensis, and cousins, Paul DeRensis (with children Thomas and Zachary), Lisa DeRensis, and Lori Dionne and her husband Denis (with children Ethan and Ellie). David was predeceased by his father, William DeMatteo, his uncle Emil DeRensis, and his cousin Thomas DeRensis.

Dave's longtime friend and housemate, Keith Hoyle, played an instrumental role in caring for him in his later years, allowing Dave to remain at home despite multiple medical challenges. The family is forever grateful for Keith's selflessness and dedication.

Dave grew up in Niantic, CT, and graduated from East Lyme High School, where he excelled in baseball and soccer and played trombone for the ELHS marching band. The band trip to Vienna, Austria, was a memorable experience for him and ignited his passion for travel and adventure.

After graduating from the University of CT, Dave had plans to pursue a career in park management in the state of WA. However, a serious car accident altered his path, and he went on to work at Electric Boat in Groton, CT, and as an agent for Boyer Real Estate before moving to MA to work in the commercial sprinkler and fire pump business until his early retirement.

Dave will be remembered by his loving family and vast group of loyal friends for his zest for life, his love and admiration for his family, and his captivating storytelling abilities. Despite the challenges he faced, Dave remained determined and resilient, never giving up. Even in his final days, he expressed his desire to live for another 20 years and revisit the cross-country road trip he had taken with his buddies decades ago.

Burial will be private, and a celebration of David's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dave's honor can be made to Salmon VNA and Hospice in Milford, MA.

David Barr DeMatteo will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.