David N. Slora

1956 - 2024

David N. Slora
1956 - 2024
Ludlow
David Neil Slora, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on May 11th after a 4 year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born June 24, 1956 in Springfield MA to Joseph W. Slora and Martha C. (Kastner) Slora, (both predeceased), was the youngest of 3 fun-loving kids, with sisters Kathi Slora (Jim Nash) of Montana and Eileen Slora (Tito Avila) of California. David attended Cathedral High School and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC), where he got his Associates Degree in Nursing. He then went on to work 40 years at Baystate Medical Center as a Registered Nurse in their NICU department.
STCC was where David met the love of his life, "the most beautiful girl in his nursing class", Donna (Cardinal), his wife of 41 years. Together they raised their 4 children, Michael Alves (Vanessa Kane-Alves), Eric Slora (Jennifer), Meredith Martin (Matthew) and Emily Slora. David loved being a Papa to his 4 grandchildren, Madison, Mason, Vivian and McKenna and uncle to his many nieces & nephews.
David's easy going and humorous personality helped him to build many childhood friendships that have stood the test of time. Steve Bryant and Jimmy Foster, his best friends and fellow Boston Celtic fans, began their friendship at age 6 and were always hanging out, weekly if not daily. David's love for entertaining and hosting allowed him to create many fond memories with his in-laws & extended family, his friends and his colleagues.
David was a doer, a true jack of all trades and with the mind of an engineer he could fix almost anything. Many knew him for his abilities as a mechanic, pool guy and project helper. His kind heart, caring demeanor and willingness to help, made him memorable to both the babies families and the NICU Teams he worked with. Making others feel comfortable and welcomed was truly his super power. He could talk to anyone about anything and always had a joke ready to go.
When it came to Donna, his children, and those close to him he'd do just about anything. Princess pickups were a standard on Donna work days as were prioritizing whatever made her happy. Driveway basketball games and batting practice after a 12 hour shift happened regularly, the only question was whether he was allowed to change out of his scrubs or not. He bodysurfed with the kids and dug holes big enough to fit a car when they went to the beach. He was their coach, roller coaster buddy, personal chauffeur and advice column all in one.
As you might imagine he didn't like to sit still and took every opportunity to spend time with those he cared about. Memorable family vacations full of laughter and fun were at least an annual occurrence and often included inviting extended family and friends to join along. David was always generous with his time and loved to give "tucky money" and $2 bills.
David's deeds, jokes and words, impacted so many people for the better throughout his lifetime. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. David's family would like to thank Dr. Gabriel and the staff at the D'amour Cancer Center, Jonathan the R.N. and the team from Baystate Hospice for all their care and support to our family. Services will be held at Ludlow Funeral Home on Thursday May 23rd. Visiting hours are from 3:00-5:30pm with a Chapel Service beginning at 5:30. A celebration of life will take place on a later date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the NICU at Baystate Medical Center. Online at Ludlowfuneralhome.com