David Lombardi

8/12/1948 - 10/1/2025

New London - David Michael Lombardi, 77, of New London, died at home Oct. 1, 2025, after losing his prolonged battle with cancer.

He was predeceased by his parents, Louis Anthony Lombardi and Lottie Mae Ledford Lombardi; and his sister Janet Rose Lombardi Konkle; his brother-in-law Robert Konkle; and his sister-in-law Gail Banister Diamond. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sherry Banister Lombardi; his devoted son Travis Banister Lombardi; daughter-in-law Christine Gabriel Lombardi; and three much-loved grandchildren, Natalie, Gabriel, and Patrick. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Cindy Banister DeNezzo, her husband Steven DeNezzo; his brother-in-law, Kenneth Diamond; and five nephews: David Konkle, Paul, Eric, Mark and Troy Diamond; two nieces, Dianne Konkle Detwiler and Sarah Konkle George; and many cherished cousins.

David was born Aug. 12, 1948, in Hartford. He graduated from South Windsor High School in 1966. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy on nuclear submarines. He then earned his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Connecticut in business administration before embarking on a long career in the healthcare industry with Hartford Hospital in information technology and quality management.

David's love of family was the center of his life. He had an unforgettable sense of humor, and his smile could light up the room. David and his wife, Sherry, have been best friends since high school; they have dedicated their lives to each other and their family. David spent a great deal of time with his son, Travis, as he was growing up, teaching him about the things he enjoyed. Travis got his father interested in golf and skiing, two activities they enjoyed together and with other friends and family members. David and Sherry lived in Tolland for 30 years and moved to New London when David retired to be closer to their son and his family.

David has been involved with his adored grandchildren, Natalie, Gabriel and Patrick, since they were born. He attended his grandchildren's sports events with great enthusiasm and was always available to celebrate or to support their interests.

David was an avid golfer, music enthusiast, and played several instruments, including guitar, banjo, ukulele, clarinet and keyboard. In addition to golf and music, he enjoyed boating, swimming/snorkeling, fishing, gardening and woodworking. David was a lifelong Green Bay Packers, New York Yankees and UConn basketball fan.

Friends were an important part of David's life. He was always available when a friend needed a hand. He was a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks (Hartford), United States Submarine Vets Inc. (Sub Vets Groton), and he was also a member of the Holland Club. He belonged to Shennecossett Golf Course and Great Neck Country Club.

David lived a life full of love, laughter, generosity and authenticity. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends and all who were fortunate to be part of his life.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at St. Joseph's Church, Squire Street, New London. After the service, family will receive relatives and friends from noon to 3 p.m. at Filomena's Restaurant, on 262 Boston Post Road #1, Waterford.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David's memory can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306, or The Blue Door Foundation Inc., 170 Flanders Road, Niantic, CT 06357. Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home have been entrusted with handling arrangements. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.