David Lee Cattanach

Rest in Peace Dave. A life well lived

Working with David during the years that he was Waterford Superintendent of Schools and I was Board of Education Chair was one of the joys of my life. His intelligence, wit, and overall competence made what could have been a chore a real pleasure. When he was interviewed for the job, he was asked what about him might not have appeared on his resume and he answered, "I have a well-developed sense of the absurd." At that moment I knew I wanted to work with him, and I was right. He is missed.

I had Mr. Cattanach in 4th and 6th grade at Chester elementary school in the 50s. Also for Spanish club...then at me grandsons science fair I saw Mr cattanach name on a plaque at Andover elementary school as former superintendent! I know it had to be same man...great teacher!

David hired me for my first Connecticut teaching job at RHAM, and then five years later, my first principalship at Andover Elementary School at age 27. David was the smartest, wittiest superintendent I have ever worked with. He was also the most demanding, but I say that as a sincere compliment, because he always viewed education and his schools as being of the utmost importance. I was too young then to realize what a tremendous mentor he was, but as I look back over the years I have come...

I worked with David for several years when he was Superintendent of Schools for Regional District Number 8. He was a man that understood what a school superintendent should be. He was understanding, approachable, and did not try to micromanage everything. He had respect for his teaching staff which, in and of itself, was remarkable and not frequently found today. He was a school superintendent not a COO. He was missed when he left and will continue to be so now. He may be gone but his legacy...

I taught in the Hebron system during David's tenure there. As our superintendent he was the best-well versed, eloquent, witty & approachable. A unique & talented man. May David rest in peace. Barbara Kelliher

David was a brilliant administrator and a great person. Funny and bright. He stood for quality in education. Rest In Peace. David Kravet

Dave was a great Superintendent of Schools and a terrific person. He was highly repect by his peers. He will be missed.

Beth and I send our deepest sympathies to David's family. I had the greatest respect for David when we served at Region #8. He gave me my first opportunity as a school administrator, hiring me as assisitant principal at age 27. He mentored and supported me throughout my career. He was a 'Lion' among the school superintendents of his era, a very special man. He will be missed.