Obituary published on Legacy.com by Goldman Funeral Chapel - Malden on Sep. 23, 2025.
David "Dave" Strasnick, a lifelong Malden resident, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on September 23, 2025.
Born to Hyman and Florence Strasnick, Dave grew up in Malden, where he would spend most of his life - proudly rooted in the same home where generations of family memories were made. He was a devoted brother to Barbara (Strasnick) Katz and her husband Ronald, and a loving father to Jeffrey Strasnick and Marci (Strasnick) Ridley. His family grew to include daughter-in-law Keri Sweetland and the grandchildren who brought him endless joy: Athena, Megan, Olivia, Kai, Jared, Colin, and Jocelyn.
After graduating from Malden High School, Dave served his country in the U.S. Army, where he was honorably discharged. Like his father and grandfather, Dave was also a proud Mason for over 50 years, believing in the same dedication, loyalty, and integrity reflected in those values. Professionally, Dave spent many years as a lighting salesman for Phillips and Lightolier. Within the industry, he was affectionately known as "The Legend" and "The Candyman," a reflection of his charisma and the warmth he shared with everyone he met.
A true Boston sports fan through and through, Dave rarely missed a Patriots game and treasured the years he held season tickets. His annual Super Bowl party was not just about football but about filling his home with laughter, food, and friends. He also loved escaping to the movies, whether it was the thrill of a new James Bond adventure or revisiting the galaxy far, far away of Star Wars.
Dave cherished and spent years telling stories of trips taken with his sister, brother-in-law, and many cousins. But no matter where his travels took him, his heart was always with his family. Nothing lit him up more than cheering on his grandchildren at their games, applauding at their performances, enjoying their homemade chocolate chip cookies or just being present for their milestones. Even conversations about his beloved dog Mookie and his pet fish could brighten his day and bring a smile to his face.
Dave's greatest joy came from the people he loved and the connections he built over a lifetime. He will be remembered for his humor, his commitment to his family and friends and the way he loved and accepted all of us just as we are.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 28 at 10:30 AM at Goldman Funeral Chapel, 174 Ferry Street, Malden. Interment at Lebanon Tiferet Shalom Cemetery in Peabody.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dave's name to The
Alzheimer's Association at alz.org