David Merrill Amsden, 71, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Springfield to the late Merrill and Evelyn (Gonyea) Amsden, David grew up in East Longmeadow and graduated from East Longmeadow High School in 1973. He spent most of his life in Hampden, where he and his wife raised their family.
David retired after 47 years of dedicated work as a millwright, pipe welder, expert crane rigger, and in various other trades, most notably at the West Springfield Power Station. He will be remembered for his unmatched work ethic, his love of the outdoors hunting and fishing, and the pride he found in working with his hands. Always willing to lend a hand, he was the kind of neighbor and friend you could count on, whether to fix a problem or share a laugh and have a beer. Above all, he was devoted to those close to him, whose lives were strengthened by his patience, care, and love. His legacy of integrity, kindness, and quiet strength will live on in all who knew him.
David was predeceased by his brother, Steven Amsden, in 2023. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Martha (Cantalini) Amsden; three devoted children, Kerry Berselli of Hampden, Jennifer Courtney of Springfield, and David “DJ” Amsden II of Hampden; three cherished grandchildren, Alex, Haileigh, and David III; his brother Richard Amsden and his wife Cindy of Hampden; his sister Cathy Walker of East Longmeadow; his uncle David Gonyea of East Longmeadow; special grandniece “Little Cindy” Amsden; and many cousins and close friends, including Kenny and Alba Pomeroy, and especially his buddy, Mike Ouimet.
Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Wilbraham Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dakin Humane Society, 177 Union Street, Springfield, MA 01105.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Harmony Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to David and his loved ones during his final journey.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more