David Deveno, 81, of
Southwick, MA, passed away peacefully on September 13th with his children by his side. He was born in Westfield in 1944 to the late Thomas O'Neil and Priscilla (Packard) Deveno.
Growing up on a cattle farm, David had a soft spot for animals and spent much of his youth actively involved in 4-H. He went on to study at UMass, Amherst, with the intentions of following in his mother's footsteps and becoming a teacher; however the beckoning of his roots won out, and he returned to work on the family farm. He began hauling cattle across country until this was interrupted when David left to serve for 6 years in the Army Reserves. Upon returning, he again worked with his father in the cattle business while becoming an independent contractor, moving heavy equipment for Dallas & Mavis Specialized Carriers.
David had a lifelong love of cars, buying them, restoring them, selling them and in his youth, driving them fast. In 1970, a yellow Corvette that he would drive particularly fast up and down College Highway caught the eye of one young lady from Westfield, and then so did the driver. Sharon and David met and began what would become a happy and fulfilling 48 years together. They were married in 1972 and spent their lives side by side.
Long haul driving for others was the stepping stone to David launching his first official business, D.T.D. Inc.- where he transported machinery, lumber, livestock, and eventually, in what would branch into his second business, logs.
In the late 70's, David opened his second business, Baystate Log Homes, and became a builder of both traditional and Scandanavian style log houses. He built homes all around New England.
Hard work was ingrained in David's character, and that was what he did from sun up to sundown until he finally had no energy left and made it to his spot on the couch.
In the 90's, he shifted gears, literally, and opened D.T. Deveno Trucking and had a fleet of 4 tri-axle dump trucks (with Sharon not only handling the paperwork but even joining him in one of the trucks at one point)!
After losing his beloved wife and best friend of 48 years, David "retired", but never stopped moving. David loved nothing more than to spend time working in the garage with his son, Barrett, who he couldn't have been more proud of.
David had a sharp tongue and quick wit, and if you hadn't been on the receiving end of either, then you didn't really know him. He could make anyone laugh, and often left people shaking their heads with what he would say. Beneath his abrasive exterior that some people saw, was a man who would go the distance to help out friends and family.
He was predeceased by his loving and devoted wife of 48 years, Sharon Deveno (Yarmesky). The family bulldog named Dozer; their bond was unexpected, magnetic and one that cannot be left unmentioned. He leaves behind his children Brandy Deveno; his son and daughter in law Barrett and Erin Deveno. His Grandson, Cole Deveno. His Brother, John Deveno. As well as sisters and brothers in law and many nieces and nephews, and dear friends. He will be remembered and missed by all.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visiting hours on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 4PM -7PM at the Southwick Forastiere Funeral and Cremation, 624 College HWY, Southwick. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday from 9AM-10AM followed by a funeral home service at 10AM. Burial will be held in the New Cemetery
Southwick, MA.