Classmate Profile Page

Obituary

David Aldrich Card, a cherished husband, father, friend, brother, and grandfather, passed away on September 9, 2024, after a long illness, at the age of 78. Born on August 6, 1946, in Willimantic, Connecticut, David's life was marked by his commitment to his family, his service to his country, and his appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

David spent his formative years in Connecticut. He attended the Williston North Hampton School in Massachusetts and graduated from Windham High School with the Class of 1965. His early education laid the foundation for a life characterized by discipline and a strong work ethic. Following high school, David honorably served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War in Company B Medical Battalion, 25th Infantry Division, Spec. 5 where he was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice.

After returning from the war, David embarked on a career in banking, eventually transitioning into entrepreneurship as a small business owner and real estate appraiser. His professional life was a testament to his intelligence, diligence, and integrity.

David's heart was always fullest when he was with his beloved wife, Dorothea A. Card. They met one fateful afternoon at the Horace W. Porter School in Columbia, Connecticut where Dorothea was continuing her teaching career. A few months later, they were married and during their 55 years together, they built a life filled with love and laughter. Their family grew to include a son, Christopher David Card, who, with his wife Angela Dawn Card, gave David the joy of being a grandfather to Allison Tate Card and Jordan Anderson Card. David's daughter, Bethany Anne Card, and her husband Michael Jay Altieri, expanded that joy with the addition of their son Crosby Lyndon Altieri. Grandpa loved hearing all the college news, watching every piano recital, cheer competition, and lacrosse and soccer game. David was a source of strength and guidance for his family, and his wisdom will live on through them.

He was a brother to Richard, Thomas, and his twin William Card. The bond between the brothers, as well as David’s many friends, was a source of camaraderie, laughter, and support throughout David's life. David was predeceased by his parents Walter Aldrich Card and Anne Louise Little Card.

David's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an avid gardener, finding contentment in the cultivation of his plants and happiness in sharing tomatoes and other produce with friends and neighbors. A family tradition, he loved to play and watch golf. He was a voracious reader and loved to research and gain knowledge on many topics. He appreciated nature, often walking in the woods or searching for sand dollars on the beach.
College football season was a favorite time for David, as he reveled in the excitement of the games and the spirit of the teams. In his final days, he was so pleased to see his treasured Army Football Team bring home a victory. His important role in the establishment of the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Willimantic, CT and involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and the Elks Club demonstrated his commitment to fellowship and community service.

David will be missed by all who knew and loved him. His family will carry on his legacy, tell his story and strive to conduct themselves with the same kindness, integrity, courage, and passion that he did.

Friends and relatives are welcome to join the family for visitation at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 10:00 AM – 12:00PM, followed by a brief service.