David A. Shugarts – October 14, 1947 – March 06, 2015

David Shugarts, a kind man with a big heart, a beloved father, husband and brother, passed away on March 6, 2015. He was 67. A meticulous scholar, an author, longtime journalist and an explorer of the world’s mysteries, he will be missed by the people he touched during his travels. All he asked of his three sons was that they do their best, tell the truth and do the right thing. They listened. He took his coffee black, rarely missed a chance to joke around and loved to debate the day’s events, never holding back his opinion. Through David’s many pursuits, he became a home scientist, computer guru, and a hundred other titles that endeared him to many. Born in Greensburg, PA, David attended Swarthmore High School and also earned the rank of Eagle Scout while he was a student. He still kept in touch with the class of ‘65 and was described as the “glue” that held them together. David went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in English from LeHigh University in 1969 and a master’s in journalism from Boston University in 1972. In his early days, his love of exploration brought him to Africa where, while with the Peace Corps, he taught the children of Sierra Leone chemistry and many other lessons. His passion for seeking the truth in all things launched a 30-year career in journalism at the News-Times in Danbury where he was a reporter and eventually an editor. An avid sailor and aviation expert, David was the founding editor of Aviation Safety Magazine in 1981, and Powerboat Reports magazine in 1988. His meticulous work earned him five regional and national awards from the Aviation/Space Writers Association. In the later half of his career, he authored a book, “Secrets of the Widow’s Son,” and contributed to a dozen more, including “Secrets of the Code.” He also was interviewed during a documentary that was shown on the History Channel. Whether it was ancient symbols, obscure religious facts or navigating the waters of Long Island Sound and beyond, David knew something about almost anything. A skilled guitarist and song writer, he served as a sound engineer with The Flagpole Radio Café in Newtown, where he met loyal friends and enjoyed the many folk performers who took the stage. He also served as a member of Newtown’s Lyme Disease Task Force that worked toward eliminating the disease from the area. David loved his family. In the darkest times, he was the dependable, guiding light whose logical mind they depended upon. David leaves the love of his life Judith, his sons Andrew, Nicholas and Jonathan; “the five” – his brothers William and Steve, along with Ann and Janet; grandchildren Avery, Ryan, Taylor and Noa Grace and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents William and Jean Shugarts. David’s family would like to thank the many friends and family who have reached out since his death, bringing food and kind words. They also thank the nursing staff at Danbury Hospital and Newtown Police Officer Matt Hayes for his compassion.

View Full Notice → David A. Shugarts – October 14, 1947 – March 06, 2015