David R. Wilson died on Nov. 5, 2025, in Silverdale, WA, following complications from heart surgery. Born in Flushing, N.Y., and raised in Darien, CT, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Connecticut and later became a licensed Professional Engineer. His career began at Ingersoll Rand in Torrington, CT, where, as Plant Manager, he led the successful turnaround of the company’s Montreal plant. He then joined the Robert E. Morris Co. in a leadership role before launching his own septic system design business. A respected expert in wastewater management, he spoke at conferences nationwide.
Dave and his beloved wife of 45 years, Rosanne, raised their children—David, Sheila, Sandra, and Amy—in Litchfield, CT. They kept a small farm and were longtime 4-H leaders known for their commitment to young people and willingness to pitch in wherever needed. Dave served as treasurer of the Litchfield County 4-H Foundation for more than four decades and chaired its scholarship committee, taking great joy in the scholarship applicants.
Service to his community grounded him. He was an active member of the Milton Congregational Church for over 50 years, chaired the Litchfield Sewer Commission, served on the Milton Cemetery Commission, and was a longtime Boy Scout leader.
Dave endured profound loss. His son David died in a car accident in 1986, and Rosanne died of cancer in 2007. He later married Eileen Chapman, who died of cancer a year later.
In May 2025, Dave relocated to Bainbridge Island, WA, to recover from a stroke and be closer to family.
Independent and energetic, Dave was rarely without a project—making maple syrup, tending to his landscaping, or collecting treasures. He was known for gifting Hess trucks to his grandchildren and the children of friends and family. He cherished summers at the cottage his grandfather built in 1924 on Lake Dunmore in Vermont, where his Fourth of July fireworks displays became tradition.
Independent and authentic, Dave was a lifelong friend to many. He was loyal, witty, and resilient—a man with a hard shell and a heart of gold. He loved fiercely, thought deeply, gave generously of his time and talents, and always had a story to tell. People could count on him. He was endlessly proud of his children, nieces, nephews, and their families.
He is survived by his daughters Sheila Schick (Brian), Sandra Pyne (John), and Amy Burton (Alexander); grandchildren Travers (Kathryn) and Graham Schick; Sarah (Emma), Abigail (Jordan), and Chapin Pyne; David and Zoe Burton; great-grandson Jackson Pyne; siblings Peter, Bruce, and Elizabeth Wilson; and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Island Volunteer Caregivers, Knights of Columbus, Milton Congregational Church, or the Litchfield County 4-H Foundation.
A celebration of life will be held on Dec. 6 from 2:30-5:00 p.m. at the Madison House, 285 Madison Ave. S., Bainbridge Island. A memorial service will be held on Jan. 3 at the Milton Congregational Church in Litchfield, CT with a reception to follow.
