David R. Olmstead

David Royal Olmstead, beloved son of the late Margaret and Richard Olmstead, fought a valiant battle against the debilitating effects of a heart attack and stroke for over eight months, before joining his parents at home with Jesus.

He was dearly loved by his family and friends, and his presence here with us will be forever missed. Our peace is knowing he is finally free of the physical limitations and pain he faced every day since December 8, 2024.

He is survived by his three children, William, James, and Emmaline and his siblings, Richard, Karen, Diana and Dan; many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and former wife Pamela.

He leaves behind his long time best friends, Jeff Bensel and Bill McGahie, as well as his many loyal TKE (Tau Kappa Epsilon) brothers.

He was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Manasquan, attending as a Sunday School student throughout his youth, and carrying his faith forward as an adult by bringing his own children to the Church.

David lived most of his life in Brielle before moving to New Hampshire in 2006. He enjoyed many adventures and misadventures growing up at the Jersey shore and beyond, lending colorful and often hilarious material to our family folklore.

He attended Brielle Elementary, Manasquan High School and Keene State College in New Hampshire, graduating with a BA in History. David had an encyclopedic knowledge of many subjects with a great memory for detail, always ready to share his extensive knowledge of historical events and family genealogy. His grateful family fully appreciates the many hours he spent traveling to distant cemeteries and poring over documents in sundry town halls and libraries gathering precious genealogical information for us. He was also an avid antique collector and restorer, graciously sharing many pieces with others. His spare time was often spent tackling formidable projects that demanded his plumbing, electric and carpentry skills.

David spent many years working for his Uncle Frank and cousin Mike at Applegate Moving and Storage, a company started by his Grandfather. He learned all aspects of the trade before branching out into other fields. He followed his interest in marine navigation while patrolling the Manasquan River as a boating safety official and as captain of a vessel transporting employees to and from oil rigs off the Texas coast. He found great satisfaction from his public service with EMT squads in Brielle and Toms River, as well as his service to many New Hampshire hospitals as a security guard.

David had a big heart and was always ready to lend a hand whenever and wherever help was needed, with his ever present boundless and self-effacing sense of humor. He was very smart, witty and often mischievous.

He will remain forever in our hearts.

Arrangements are under the care of Orender Family Home for Funerals, Manasquan, NJ. A memorial service to celebrate David's life will be held on October 11th, 2025 at 1 pm at Manasquan First Baptist church, 47 South street, Manasquan.

In lieu of flowers his family respectfully requests donations to the American Heart Association. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.orenderfamilyhome.net

Finally we would like to offer our sincere gratitude to the kind and caring rehab therapists and medical staff who provided respectful, compassionate care especially during his final weeks at JSMC on Ackerman 3 East.