David J. Heckman, 76, of Berlin, passed away peacefully on the morning of March 14th. A man of countless qualities, it is difficult to fully capture his life and character in words.

Dave was the son of the late Veronica and George B. Heckman and the loving and devoted husband of forty years to the late Sandy Davis, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage.

Dave spent much of his life in New Britain, where he enjoyed playing softball and attending church. At 18, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served for two years. After returning home from his service, his adventurous spirit led him to hop on his motorcycle and travel across the United States on a journey around the country.

Throughout his life, Dave worked numerous jobs—from security work to dog training. Later in life, he returned to school to become an arborist and eventually started his own business, Busy Eager Beaver, which earned him his well-known nickname, “The Beaver.”

Dave was a caring and thoughtful man who devoted much of his time to his family and his faith. Proud of his Irish descent and deeply committed to his parish, he attended many church services at Saint Paul’s Parish in Kensington. Over the years, he also participated in numerous silent retreats. In addition to his church involvement, Dave was a longtime member of the AOH Spartans Italian Club and the Elks Club.

Dave came from a family of eleven children and was predeceased by his sisters Mary Margaret McCormick and JoAnne Heckman. He is survived by his two stepdaughters, Heidi Charette and Melissa Babinski; his grandchildren, Madison and Alanis Charette; and his great-grandson, Weston Steck. He is also survived by his siblings George, Brian, Kevin, James, Timothy, and Maureen Heckman; Patricia Portante; and Eileen Gagliardi, along with several nieces and nephews.

Dave was a man who truly enjoyed life and its simple pleasures. From long drives with his wife to his adventurous side showing itself in many ways—whether fishing, climbing to the top of a maple tree in a suit and tie after Mass, or taking walks with his granddaughters and pointing out every plant along the way. If you knew Dave, you knew his famous “dad jokes,” which could light up any room and will surely be remembered for years to come. He loved telling stories about his life, his adventures, his everyday moments, and everything in between—and none were ever dull. Dave was a truly special man who brought nothing but joy, humor, and kindness to those around him.

Funeral services for David will be held on Friday (Mar 20) starting at the Farrell Funeral Home, 110 Franklin Sq. New Britain at 9:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at St. Paul Church, 485 Alling St. Berlin at 10:00 AM. Burial with Military Honors will be held on Monday (Mar 23) at 1:00 PM at the State Veteran Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane. Visitation will be held on Thursday (Mar 19) from 4:00 – 6:00PM at Farrell Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Paul Church.