Lovable, kind, charming, full of potential
Very much a people person, David was known first for his kindness but also for his smile and distinct dimples. “His features were unique,” his sister, Beth, stated. “He was Irish with red hair, tall, and lots of freckles.” He was witty, and charming, and loved to make people laugh. David was very much a people person. Those who knew him remember his big bear hugs, his voice, his conversations, and the way he could make someone feel better simply by talking with them.
David was smart, especially with technology. He enjoyed working with computers and problem-solving with electronics, and he had an exceptionally good memory. David liked watching movies, playing video games, listening to music, and spending time with his family. He was proud of being a Scorpio and took pride in his tattoos, especially as his interest in tattoo art grew in more recent years.
Family memories of David are vivid and specific. He loved ordering food from Village Pizza. He would walk through the snow to the store just to get candy. He helped with everyday tasks—walking the dog, letting him out, feeding his sister’s cats. His sister, Chrissy, taught him how to drive in the empty car lot at Scarfoni Ford. When he was around six or seven years old, they would walk together down Eagle Street to get his hair cut, and afterward he would happily tell everyone he passed that he had a new haircut and soak up the compliments about looking “fresh.”
From his mother came memories of long drives together—getting coffee, listening to music, and talking. Even as a child, David enjoyed classical music. Holidays mattered to him, especially Christmas. He loved being together with family and sharing food. One Christmas stands out: David walking around with a big hunk of ham in his hand, his favorite, knowing it was the last piece.
David lived with substance use disorder for eight years. Over time, the disease changed him. The loving, kind boy his family knew became more lost, suppressing his emotions and growing more ill-tempered and manipulative. Though he had so much potential, his addiction prohibited him from achieving significant life events and accomplishments typical of someone his age. His family struggled with not knowing what was true, worrying about his safety, and setting painful but necessary boundaries to protect themselves and their children. Much of their grief began long before David’s death, as they lived with a constant fear of losing him.
Still, David loved his family in the best way he could during his struggle. His deeply loving nature never fully disappeared. He dreamed of getting into recovery, leaving North Adams, and starting fresh somewhere warm. He wanted a different life, that included his daughter, Justina, now eleven, whom he loved. Beth says, “Now that he is passed, it is hard to bring up his name without getting seriously emotional.”
David is missed for his smile, his hugs, his laughter, and his random text messages.
David’s sisters, Beth Piantoni, and Christine Tower, provided the information for this narrative.
November 19, 1993–September 9, 2021-Age 27
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
