David J. Wilhelmsen, 66, of Mattapoisett died peacefully June 9, 2023, at St. Luke's Hospital after having courageously fought a lengthy illness.
Born in New Bedford, son of Doris A. (Veek) Wilhelmsen of Mattapoisett and the late Alf H. Wilhelmsen, he was raised in Dartmouth and lived in Mattapoisett most of his life.
He was the owner and captain of the F/V Legacy for many years. He started his fishing career alongside his father on the F/V Ocean Gem.
David was happiest listening to his favorite classic rock bands, especially The Beatles, and spending time at family gatherings. He enjoyed family vacations, his favorites being Vermont, Hawaii, and Cooperstown. He loved history, trivia, and was an avid Red Sox fan.
Survivors include a son, James Wilhelmsen, of Providence, RI; a daughter, Leah Durocher and her husband Jack of Rochester; a brother, Glenn Wilhelmsen and his wife Donna of Dartmouth; a sister, Nancy Eilertsen and her companion Chuck Rooney of Mattapoisett; his former wife, Kathleen (Reagan) Wilhelmsen of Mattapoisett; two aunts, Janet Cronin of Churchville, NY and Pamela Veek of Framingham and Fairhaven; a grandson, John Durocher; and a nephew and several nieces.
His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 17th at 9:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 16 Temple Place, Fairhaven. The burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery. Visiting hours are Friday, June 16th from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett.
The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to Ines, Maggie, and his many caretakers who supported him throughout his illness.