David A. Coonan Sr., 84, of Whitman, Massachusetts died on November 4 in Kingston after a long illness. He was the beloved husband of Barbara J. (Furness) Coonan for 64 years.
Dave served in the U.S. Navy, then continued his schooling and worked in electronics at MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory.
He returned to a life of service with a 20-year career in the Massachusetts State Police, starting as a Trooper in the Middleboro barracks, then working in the K9 unit for many years with his canine partner, the late Colonel Klink, and finishing his career investigating with the State Fire Marshall’s office, where he retired as Lieutenant. Dave then worked as an investigator for MetLife Insurance Company. He was also a 20-year volunteer firefighter in Whitman.
Dave graduated from Whitman High School in the Class of 1955 and lived his entire life in Whitman. He was an avid runner and frequently participated in the Falmouth Road Race with the MSP Striders. He was a devoted Red Sox and Patriots fan and enjoyed spending time fishing. He also had a passion for music and crossword puzzles.
In addition to his wife Barbara, Dave leaves behind five children: Linda J. Dixon and husband Del of Newport, Maine, Dawn L. Shuster and husband James of Kingston, David A. Coonan Jr. and wife Sandra of Duxbury, Michael D. Coonan and wife Heather of Jacksonville, Florida and Bonnie R. Goltz and husband Luke of San Diego, California. He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, as well as a nephew and several nieces.
Dave was son of the late Austin Coonan and the late Ruth (Peterson) Coonan of Whitman and brother of the late Marlene (Coonan) Hayward of Whitman.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Funeral Services to celebrate Dave’s life on Saturday November 12 at 10 a.m. at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Burial at the Colebrook Cemetery will immediately follow. Visiting hours will be held Friday November 11 from 4 to 7 PM at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel.
Memorial donations may be made to Old Colony Hospice, 321 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379.