DAVID GRAVES MUGAR

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Cambridge School of Weston Babson College Cornell University California Institute of Technology

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Boston, Massachusetts

DAVID MUGAR Obituary

MUGAR, David Graves Of Boston, passed away on January 25, 2022. Adoring father of Jennifer E. Mugar of Winchester, Peter S. Mugar of Boston and Jonathan Mugar and his wife Adrienne of Lexington; brother of Carolyn G. Mugar of Cambridge; loving companion of Carolynn Cartelli of Boston; grandfather of Elise Mugar, Emily Mugar, Peter G. Flaherty, III, William D. Flaherty, and Matthew F. Flaherty. Uncle of Douglas Ray, Allison Parke and Meridith Stevenson. Also survived by his former wife, Martha S. Mugar of Belmont. The family will receive visitors on Sunday, February 6, 2022 from 1pm to 6pm in the J.S. Waterman-Langone Chapel, 580 Commercial St., BOSTON. Complimentary valet parking available at front entrance, In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Community Boating, Inc., 21 David G. Mugar Way, Boston, MA 02114 www.community-boating.org Burial will be

private. For online condolences or directions, please visit www.watermanboston.com J.S. Waterman-Langone Chapel

617-536-4110

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Published by Boston Globe from Jan. 28 to Jan. 30, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for DAVID MUGAR

10 Entries

Isabell Springer

February 7, 2022

In spring of 1976, David Mugar was trying to find me.

He was in full blown production mode for the launch of Boston´s Bicentennial Fourth of July Extravaganza, featuring Arthur Fiedler's Boston Pops on the Charles River. In preparation, for what would be his biggest production to date and with millions coming to celebrate, with our beloved conductor and his Boston Pops. This historic event would be broadcast live around the world. And remembered, as the day I was "struck by Mugar lightning."

David was in preparation for the Bicentennial when he stumbled on a photo of me and my Mom that was apparently shot by a local photographer a few years earlier of us watching the Boston Pops on the Fourth once again. He was struck by the photo (by Robert DiNatale) and posted it on the TV News asking if anyone knew who we were.

I was a sophomore in high school and now living in Florida. I have no idea who saw the news that night but we got a call inviting my Mom and I to return back to Boston as Guests of Honor for his Epic event. What just happened? Who is David Mugar and why is he looking for us? It would be a day I would cherish for the rest of my life, and an honor it was.

We were flown first class, we ordered lobster from room service and stayed at a 5-star hotel. A few days leading up to the 4th, I was being interviewed by journalists and greeted by many people who were working with David for this most extraordinary event.

It was now the big day, and David had arranged a police escort to pick us up. With those red lights flashing on top of the car, we slowly drove through streets filled with millions of people, who came from all over the nation, hoping to get close enough to hear the Pops and catch the firework display.

It was all so surreal, yet I remember details of meeting Boston´s VIPs for the pre-party and being introduced to Arthur Fielder's most handsome son, Peter. I was 16 and Peter was maybe mid to late 20s, not sure, but I remember the moment gave me butterflies as he hugged me. lol

Everyone was so gracious and made a point to say things like, "I´m so glad we found you" and "How nice that you were the one struck by lightning." It was a fateful moment that would stay with me forever.

In 2008, I was a single mom getting my PhD, and found the commemorative book from the Bicentennial event. Thirty years had now passed, and I decided to now find David and see how he was doing, and to thank him again.

In my online search I found Peter working at BU and called him first. I introduced myself, and did not expect that he would remember me, but he did. "Isabell, of course I remember you, so great to hear from you. Yes. Do reach out to David, he would love to hear from you!"

I next called David´s office and introduced myself to the woman who picked up the phone, "Hi, my name is Isabell Pollini, now Springer, and I don´t know if David remembers me but" - she cut's me off, "Of course Isabell, we all know who you are, David has the photo of you and your mom the size of an entire wall in his office."

Oh my gosh. I was a bit overwhelmed by the thought of that, and wasn´t sure if that was a good thing or super annoying. Lol

David was so warm, and exactly as I remembered him, jovial, curious, and had a great laugh that I still remember. We chatted for a while and he said let´s keep in touch. It was such a great moment reconnecting with him as I was now all grown up.

David was such a big-hearted person and someone that was easy to love. A man who I came to learn was so generous and giving to so many people and organizations in the great city of Boston. It was an honor to have known David, to be connected to him through the extraordinary work he brought to so many people all over the world.

He was a visionary and he leaves a legacy of being someone who cared about people. His passing brings me back to the day I was "struck by Mugar lightning" and how lucky I was to have known such a great human.

Thank you, David, for all you are and all you brought to the world. You made a difference and we love you. RIP.

PS- David, I think I'm going to call and see if I could now be the owner of the photo that hung on your work space for 30 years. That would be a story I could carry on about you for the next 30 years. <3

Gerald G. Street

February 6, 2022

Mr. Mugar was my employer (Thirwood Place Retirement Community) but was also a friend. He was one of the nicest gentlemen I have ever met. He was always gracious to everyone.

Debi Dean

February 5, 2022

My deepest condolences to Carolynn and the Mugar family. David was a kind hearted and generous man. I enjoyed my time time taking care of his home at 4 Peter Bay.

Lillian Mooradian

February 3, 2022

I wish to offer my condolences on the loss of your brother, Carolyn. I am sure he will be sorely missed by everyone.

Charlie Zechel

January 31, 2022

David was a one of a kind who played an outsized role improving the lives of so many in Boston and beyond. At Community Boating, David was always a helpful hand and wise counselor. Children sailing on the Charles River is part of his legacy. When we set sail next we'll know David is there with us in the breeze. Fair winds, farewell.

Gail Hekimian LaFleche

January 30, 2022

To the entire Mugar family, we are very sorry to hear about your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Gail Hekimian LaFleche and Louise Hekimian

Pamela Humphrey

January 30, 2022

How can Boston and beyond ever thank David enough for what he has contributed to our joy and to the memory of the aspirations of what our country can be and is in so many ways. The 4th of July brings us together in a way that few things do. Thank you David for your vision, commitment to our founding principles as a country and for giving us a joyful way to come together. It is a legacy that few can claim and and a gift few have given with such profound impact. Thank you, thank you. God Bless you and your family.

Nancy, Kristine & Michael Guleserian

January 29, 2022

Our sincerest condolences to the entire Mugar family. Sending love and prayers your way.

Karen Kelly McEachern

January 29, 2022

Thank you to Mr. Mugar for all of his contributions to the people of the city of Boston.

Michael Sullivan

January 29, 2022

To the Mugar Family

Please accept my deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Michael Sullivan

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