David L. Gilman

David Louis Gilman passed away on November 4, 2025. He was 54.
David was born in Boston on November 21, 1970. He attended Concord-Carlisle High School and then Westfield State College, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Art and Graphic Design. His passion for design was initially expressed through his work for local advertising firms and for the Boston University Corporate Education Center.
In 2001, Dave established Cognito, his own Graphic Design and Brand Identity firm. At Cognito, Dave's talent really shined. He passionately created colorful logos and increased visibility for dozens of corporate clients. His meticulous attention to detail and utter devotion to his craft also served him well as an event DJ and MC at hundreds of venues over the last two decades. "DJ Dave" was completely committed to making each event fun and meaningful for every attendee. Dave was a hard worker who playfully dubbed himself "designer by day and performing DJ by night."
Beginning in 2007, Dave was enthusiastically involved in Toastmasters International. There, he developed professional skills and helped many others do the same. He most recently served as President of Sales and Marketing Toastmasters, in which role he provided a supportive club environment for all members and recruited new ones to his Massachusetts chapter.
Dave studied the Bible every day, and lived his life according to its sacred teachings. He was most passionate about his family, which loved him dearly for his generosity, fun loving spirit and kind, loving nature. This was perhaps best expressed in family summer vacations on Cape Cod, where Dave loved to join his mother, siblings, cousins, nieces and nephew for fun on the beach. Dave would string together a wondrous flotilla of his animal-themed inflatable rafts that buoyed the whole family at low tide. Dave's giant white inflatable swan, the pride of his fleet, often attracted kids and adults from up and down the beach. One of those, a visitor from Georgia, once asked Dave where she could buy one, and he gave "Swanny Swan" to her on the spot. Dave loved to make people happy.
Dave was predeceased by his father, Charles S. Gilman. He is survived by his mother, Judy Gilman, twin brother Ed Gilman, brother Gary Waleik and sister-in-law Natalie Waleik, sister Sharon Foster and brother-in-law John Foster, brother Lou Gilman and sister Julianne Gilman. He also leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews Marlee, Daniel, Samantha, Hannah, Luna, John, Luke and Nolan, as well as dear uncles, aunts, cousins and many, many friends.
Relatives and friends will celebrate Dave's life during visiting hours at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Concord, Massachusetts on Sunday, November 16 from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm, followed by interment at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Concord.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in David Gilman's memory to a children's or veterans' charity or organization.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.