David W. Gonyea Jr.

David W. Gonyea, Jr., 46, passed away suddenly on May 25th, 2022 after a courageous and lifelong battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. He leaves his parents, Linda and James Lowell of East Longmeadow, his devoted sister, Catherine, her husband Adam Cairns, and his nephews, Landon and Jack, all of Rocky Hill, CT. He was predeceased by his twin brother, Matthew, who he missed very much. He leaves many loving and supportive aunts, uncles and cousins who contributed to his long and happy life.
He also leaves a special friend, Ed Antil, who visited him regularly at Western Massachusetts Hospital. They often played Scrabble and Yahtzee together and had quite a rivalry. David leaves a very special buddy, a Quaker Parrot named Avocado. They had quite a special bond.
David was a longtime resident of East Longmeadow and attended East Longmeadow High School and was a member of the National Honor Society. He received an Associate’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from STCC. He participated in the Muscular Dystrophy and Easter Seal telethons.
David was an avid sports fan and had been enjoying the Bruins and Celtics playoff games. He enjoyed going to Red Sox and Patriots games, being on his computer, going to the movies, listening to music and attending concerts. He loved the outdoors and going for walks and visiting with his nephews. He was a loving individual who had so much more he wanted to do.
David was a resident of Western Massachusetts Hospital for many years. Our heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of the hospital who provided David with loving, passionate care throughout the years.
He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Everyone is invited to gather together on Saturday, June 4th, 2022 from 5-7pm at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 N. Main St., East Longmeadow MA. A Memorial Service will follow at 7pm.
Memorial contributions in David’s name may be made to the Recreation Department at Western Massachusetts Hospital, 91 East Mountain Road, Westfield, MA 01085. To leave an online condolence or for more information, visit www.forastiere.com.