DAVID E. MCKENZIE

1951 - 2025

MCKENZIE, David E. Age 74, of Haverhill, passed away peacefully, on December 23, 2025, at High Pointe Hospice House, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. David will be remembered for his quick wit and ready smile, his passion for the arts, and his devotion to his faith, his family and many friends. David was born in Somerville, on May 20, 1951, moments before his twin brother, Douglas; sons of John R. and Marjorie (Cowie) McKenzie. David, a graduate of Somerville High School, spent his summers on trips with the family to Prince Edward Island, as well as Indiana, Florida and Civil War battle sites. Following two years at Utica College, David went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tufts University in 1973 and shortly thereafter, moved to California, where he met Eric Karlstad, his partner/husband of 45 years. From the early age of 14 when he purchased his first opera record, David began a lifelong love of classical music and opera. David's interests were as diverse as his curiosity and included travel (having visited 20-plus countries), history, cooking, and reading. His faith was a commitment instilled since childhood and included many years serving as an usher at Trinity Church in Boston. David's professional career started in banking with Citizens Savings in California before moving back to New England, working at The Boston Five and Amoskeag Bank in Manchester, NH. In 1991, David joined Design Link International as Sales Manager and was instrumental in helping the firm, cofounded by Eric, transition from an international interiors contracting company to an importer and distributor of contemporary design contract furniture. Eric and David continued their entrepreneurial endeavors creating a successful painting company and the popular Lakeview Kitchen, a Café and Bakery in Bradford, MA. David is survived by his husband, Eric W. Karlstad, of Haverhill. He also leaves behind his brother, Bruce McKenzie, of Medford; and his sisters, Debbie Teal and her husband, Ken of Westford and Joyce McKenzie of Somerville; sister-in-law, Michi McKenzie, of Tucson, AZ; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Douglas McKenzie. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Celebration of Life on January 24, 2026, 10:00 am, at Trinity Church in the city of Boston. In lieu of flowers, donations in the memory of David may be made to Trinity Church, Emmaus Inc. and Creative Haverhill Cogswell ArtSpace project. Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home.

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