David L. Sturtevant

1945 - 2018

OLD ORCHARD BEACH - David Loring Sturtevant, 72, of Old Orchard Beach, died unexpectedly after a brief illness on July 23, 2018.

David, the only child of Gustavus Tapley Sturtevant and Zane (Loring) Sturtevent, was born on Oct. 30, 1945. David grew up in Portland, Maine. He graduated from Deering High School, earned a bachelor's degree at Boston University and a master's degree from Boston College. He worked as a social worker for many years, most recently supporting clients with intellectual disabilities as a program manager at Ascentria Care Alliance, formerly Lutheran Social Services. He previously advocated for families and clients living with mental illness as interim executive director of NAMI Maine. In addition, he shared his dedication and passion for social work at Support Solutions, Port Resources, Pineland and for the state of Maine.

Throughout his life, David remained young at heart and had more in common with the young than the old. He came of age during the 60s and 70s and remained a hippie at his core. He loved the sun and summer; his favorite places were Old Orchard Beach and Dina's pool. He devoured music of all types, movies, musicals and a good book. He never lost the desire to discover new music, a great new thriller or debate what movie to see that weekend. He was a talented artist. Always a foodie, over the last 20 years he honed his own skills and could put together an amazing meal. He enjoyed a crisp gin and tonic or an IPA - preferably on a deck overlooking the ocean - but most of all he loved the two women in his life.

David was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by: his daughter, Hanna Sturtevant; and his long-time love and partner, Dina Mendros.

There will be no funeral, but a Celebration of Life from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, at 35 Rumery St., Saco. There will be a tequila toast and remembrances at 2 p.m. -Hawaiian Shirts are encouraged and bathing suits are optional.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in David's memory can do so at: https://www.ascentria.org/donate/donate-now, designate your gift to Disability Services ME (that is IDD programs).