David Henry Loetell

Loetell, David H., 78, of Bolton, Massachusetts, by way of Jupiter, Florida, by way of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away at home, with family by his side, on August 15 following an extended illness. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, jokes, heavily-spiked eggnog and grossly excessive Christmas light displays.

Dave was predeceased by the love of his life, Sally, and by his parents, Joseph W. Loetell, Sr. and Irene V. Loetell (Cwalina). He is survived by his daughter Kate Buyuk, of Bolton, Massachusetts and granddaughters, Maggie and Bailey, and his daughter Rachel Geisz, of Parkville, Maryland and grandson, Dylan. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph W. Loetell, Jr.

For more than 40 years, Dave owned and operated a dental lab in Baltimore. He took great pride in his work, including that time he made a (surprise) red, white and blue tooth for his brother. And that time he made a replacement tusk for one of the elephants at the Baltimore Zoo. He also designed and crafted custom jewelry for friends and family members. Many of you are lucky enough to have received pieces from him over the years.

Dave lived enthusiastically and unapologetically, approaching life with passion and intensity – including his love of Baltimore sports teams. Though late in life he claimed he was always a Yankees fan, we all know the love he had for the Orioles, and the countless games he attended at Memorial Stadium and Camden Yards. However, his passion for the Ravens was unparalleled, both in Baltimore and with his Florida Flock. So. Much. Tailgating. So. Much. Purple.

Dave’s other passions included playing baseball and tennis, bowling, country line dancing, Twinkies, Pepsi, and Christmas. His eggnog recipe is available to the highest bidder. Sally and his Christmas parties – and world’s thinnest sugar cookies -- were the stuff of legends. His outrageous Christmas lights followed him from Baltimore to Florida.

Dave was also an exceptional and loyal friend. He was always on call as “Mr. Fix-it” for a leaky sink or to attend your child’s wedding or to buy a round (or 5) at the Crack Pot (while playing the infernal Cherry Machine). He got so much joy from being around all of you and always being the life of the party.

A lifelong Episcopalian, he was an active member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Baltimore, Maryland, St. John’s Church in Kingsville, Maryland, and Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Tequesta, Florida. His church communities provided friendship, comfort, and spiritual guidance throughout his life.

Dave will be remembered by friends and family for his larger-than-life personality and generous spirit. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an animal rescue of your choice. A memorial service will be scheduled in the Baltimore area in November, details to follow.

Enjoy the unlimited crabs with Rum & Pepsi, Dad!