David R Hershowitz

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, after a 7-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
David was born in 1945 to Genevieve (Barnes) and Peter Hershowitz. He spent most of his life in his hometown of West Springfield, graduating in 1964. Shortly after graduation, he entered the army and served as a mechanic based in Germany. He was a part of the 24th Infantry Division, A Company, “keepin’ dem tanks a rollin’”. He married his high school sweetheart Bonnie Johnson in 1967 and raised two wonderful children, Scott and Dawn.
Dave later attended STCC and Asnuntuck College for machining. He spent many years employed at Facemate in Chicopee, Longview Fiber in West Springfield, and Kinetic Tools in E Windsor.
He enjoyed woodworking and occupying himself with anything mechanical in his workshop. He always worked hard, side by side with his wife, in constantly improving the home and their property. Very often he could be found in the garage making sure his family’s vehicles were in top-notch shape. In retirement, he remained active, always thinking about his next project.
Very much a family man, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren bike riding, hiking, sledding; doing all the things that would result in shared experiences and create lasting memories. His last few years were happily spent with an ever faithful friend and loving companion, Maggie. The addition of a dog into their family was unexpected, yet so welcomed.
For 23 years, he enjoyed annual vacations with his dear friends, Patty & Ken Keifer. The two couples shared many exciting destinations and lasting memories, creating an unforgettable bond.
Dave was a man with a sweet, kind, gentle and generous soul. The one who would rush ahead of the crowd to open the door or offer you his front row seat. He and Bonnie built a wonderful life together, imparting much wisdom, knowledge and care to their children. He gave them such a great start to their lives.
As a tribute to his character: over 25 years ago, his wife had scheduled a bulk pick-up at their home. Her accordion, which she had not played in years, was one of the items that she placed on the curbside. Assuming that she would regret having disposed of it, he decided to save her from herself. When she went back into the house, he secretly retrieved the accordion and vowed to take the hiding place to his grave. And true to his word, as he knew the end was coming, he disclosed the location to his son, Scott, and that old accordion now has a new lease on life.
David is survived by his loving wife Bonnie, his son Scott (Julie Verost) of Oak Bluffs, MA, his daughter Dawn (Scott Kent) of Suffield, CT, and his two precious granddaughters, Victoria and Sarah Kent.
His spirit will live on in the people whose lives he has touched.