David Jonathan Ames

David Jonathan Ames, 81, was a devoted husband, brother, son, uncle, friend, colleague and veteran.

He passed away peacefully with his wife, Dierdre, and close family by his side on January 30, 2026. Born January 31, 1944 in Brooklyn, New York, David lived a life shaped by making the most of every day, dedicated service, devotion and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.

David was the son of Thomas Gregory Ames and Marie Manderbach Ames.

David earned his Bachelor of Science from Cornell University and later graduated cum laude from Boston College Law School with his Juris Doctorate, beginning a lifelong career combining law, finance, and community leadership.

David served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant, he was in the 5th Battalion, 46th Infantry. He deployed to Vietnam in March 1968, arriving at Chu Lai in Quang Ngai Province with the 198th Light Infantry Brigade. He was a Green Beret and received distinguished honors including the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

On May 29, 1979, David married Dierdre (Dede) Broderick. Together they created a lifetime of memories boating, traveling and hosting family and friends in their home and boat.

Professionally, David distinguished himself over decades as a lawyer and as a banker in real estate finance. He retired as a Senior Vice President at Santander Bank where he was widely respected for his expertise in lending, portfolio management, loan restructuring, and risk mitigation. His colleagues valued his analytical mind, steady leadership, and ability to navigate complex financial structures with integrity and clarity.

In addition, David devoted himself to community work, serving on nonprofit boards such as BIC Nehemiah Partnership, Inc. and Hospice West, where he became Chairman and helped guide the organization through expansion and the development of vital community services.

David was happiest when he was on the water sailing, boating and visiting new ports. The water brought him peace and joy. In retirement, he and Dede moved to Punta Gorda, Florida, where they enjoyed coastal living and boating. David enjoyed riding his bike, exercising, traveling and always enjoying a good book.

Those who knew David will remember him as intelligent, thoughtful, dedicated, loyal, and as someone with a dry sense of humor. He was always someone that was willing to help family and friends. Over the years, he always enjoyed family get-togethers and sadly Thanksgiving was his last at the Goodrich's camp.

David is preceded in death by his parents and brother Peter. He is survived by his wife, Dierdre, his brother Greg Ames (Nina), sister Ellen Legg (Ed), Chris Ames (widow of Peter), and many in-laws, nieces and nephews who will honor his memory and cherish the time they shared with him.

We are deeply grateful for the wonderful doctors and nurses who cared for David during his final days at Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte whose attentiveness, compassion and advice brought great comfort.

David considered each day a gift and made the most of his life by working hard and enjoying life fully. He will be greatly missed. To honor David's life, we would encourage you to live each day with purpose.

A private service will be held at the Sarasota National Cemetery at a later date.