David W. Simpson

Sturbridge: David W. Simpson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on January 8th after an illness. His presence shaped the lives of all who knew him. A romantic at heart, David spent 60 beautiful years married to the love of his life, Marcia Garieri Simpson of Sturbridge. He delighted in small gestures of affection and was never happier than when his family was gathered together.

David leaves behind his beloved wife Marcia; his daughter Tracy Rovezzi and her husband Chris of Sturbridge; his sons Michael and his wife Michelle of Fernandina Beach, FL, and Stephen and his wife Monika of Brimfield.. He was the proud and cherished "Pa" to his grandchildren Nicolas, Evan, Brady, Logan, Kylar, and Sofia, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his sisters Linda Bouthillier and her husband Bruce of Dudley, and Diane Simpson of Holland. He was predeceased by his brother Paul and leaves behind many extended family members.

Born in Worcester, David spent most of his life in Sturbridge. As a young man, he treasured summers spent working on his uncle's farm in New Hampshire. His lifelong love story with Marcia began when they lived just two houses apart and became high school sweethearts. They married on July 2, 1966, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, adventure, and unwavering support.

David proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Hohenfels, Germany as part of the Hawk missile system. During their three years abroad, David and Marcia traveled throughout Europe and welcomed their first child, Michael. They returned home to Sturbridge in July 1969 to begin the next chapter of their lives.

For 25 years, David worked at Micro Networks in Worcester, and later became the owner of Hometown Hardware in Southbridge. He was deeply involved in his community-coaching Little League, refereeing soccer, and sharing his love of archery as a member of the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club.

A true craftsman and a jack of all trades, David's passions were as varied as they were heartfelt. He restored his beloved 1965 Mustang convertible and built a 1951 Ford pickup truck from the ground up. He played guitar on Sundays at the old Banjo Pub, built a go-kart for his children from a lawn mower, and crafted knives from leaf springs. His handmade gifts, created with care and intention, remain treasured keepsakes for his family. Always ready to lend a hand, David was the neighbor everyone could count on. In his semi-retirement, he could often be found prepping food at Rovezzi's-fitting for the man who was proudly the family chef.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Cindybeth Palmgren for her advocacy and support, to Dr. Leslie Webster for giving David ten more wonderful years, and to Dr. Trainor at UMass for being not only his physician but also a friend.

David's life was defined by love, loyalty, craftsmanship, and quiet generosity. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the community he enriched, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and skill. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A funeral Mass for David will be held on Saturday, January 31st, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton Street, Southbridge, with a Mass at 12:00pm in the St. Anne–St. Patrick Parish, 16 Church Street, Sturbridge. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, January 31st, from 10:00 to 11:30am, prior to the Mass. Burial for David will be private at a later date.