David J. Martin

David J. Martin, age 62, residing in East Haven, CT passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025 in
his home, as he wished, surrounded by his two beloved cats, Smokey and Teena, after a brief
illness. He was born in Derby, CT on February 21, 1963. He grew up in Shelton, CT and
graduated from Emmett O'Brien Technical High School in 1981. David received his electrician's
license and eventually went into business for himself as Quality 1 Services doing residential and
commercial construction services.
On May 1 of this year David celebrated 34 years of sobriety and the family received numerous
messages from people that David had sponsored thanking him for changing their lives for the
better. He attended meetings weekly and when away on his various cruises he would meet
with other AA members for informal meetings.
Besides his love for his cats, he fed families of raccoons and other wildlife, and his back yard
was a sanctuary for all different kinds of birds.
David was an avid fisherman and he enjoyed playing the slot machines at places like Mohegan
Sun and Foxwoods, going on many island cruises from his winnings. He also enjoyed attending
concerts of his favorite artists and bands. Most recently he traveled to Tampa, FL for the North
American "Power Up" final tour of AC/DC, one of his favorite bands. David lived life to the
fullest in the present. He was a good friend to many, fun-loving, caring, and generous.
David will also be remembered for his spectacular Fourth of July fireworks display. David
insisted that the fireworks show happen on July 4th and only on July 4th regardless what day
the holiday fell on. Usually at a celebration of friends and family and as soon as it was dark, he
would light up the sky with the sights and sounds of a spectacular display of fireworks.
He is the son of the late Irene L. Martin and Woodrow W. Martin. He is survived by his sisters
and brothers, Sandra Martin, Donna Martin, Richard Martin (Deborah) and John Martin
(Elizabeth); several nieces and nephews, Curtis, Jeffrey, Colleen Martin (Justin Grenier), Travis
and Joelle Martin, Taylor Devine (Mike Rak) and Joshua Pivarnick; and great nieces and nephew,
Jalynn Gallagher, Lilly and George Grenier. David is predeceased by his sister and brother,
Marianne Pivarnick and Robert Martin. Services will be private and entrusted by Riverview
Funeral Home, 390 River Road, Shelton, CT. The family will gather with relatives and friends at
a later date to celebrate his life.