DAVID ALBERT GIESSELMAN December 6, 1957 - February 29, 2020 David Albert Giesselman, 62 of Simbury, Connecticut met his Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 29, 2020. David passed after battling prostate cancer with grace, dignity, character, and his wonderful sense of humor.
David was born December 6, 1957 in Syracuse, New York. He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 29 years, Rena’ Marcelle Petty-Hickman Giesselman and his adoring sons, Jack Brooks Giesselman and Christopher Michael Giesselman. He is also survived by his brother Kurt Michael Giesselman, sister-in-law Janet Giesselman and niece Connor Giesselman; sister Antoni Louise ‘Toni’ Giesselman Barnett Hobbs and brother-in-law Michael Wayne Hobbs, nieces Shaina Barnett Stringer and Rachel Barnett, nephews Jason Barnett and Micheal Barnett; along with three grand nieces, five grand nephews, and numerous, aunts, uncles, cousins, and sister and brother-in-law. He is also survived by his beloved childhood friend, Ned Hudson of Lynchburg, Virginia and many, many friends.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Carl and Jacqueline Joan Giesselman of Lynchburg, Virginia, and his daughter Azlee Keller Hickman of Charlottesville, Virginia.
David studied mechanical engineering and computer science at Lynchburg College and the University of Virginia. He was with DataCAD from the very beginning of its birth as one of the founding members in Charlottesville, Virginia thirty-six years ago. In October of 1996, David co-founded DATACAD LLC of Simsbury, Connecticut and became the Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice-President. He treasured his co-founders, co-workers, clients, and customers. David was formerly a firefighter, drill instructor, and fire police officer with the North Canton Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed singing in the Trinity Episcopal Church Choir in Collinsville. He was a proud umpire and coach for his son’s Little League careers and an avid Red Sox Fan. He spent many hours restoring vintage consoles and speakers. He enjoyed his audio and Jaguar forms and Facebook friends. He also volunteered for many events with his children, and always supported his wife in her many ventures.
A private party was held by his family for his closest friends at the Métro Bis in Simsbury, on March 8th, the restaurant of one of David’s favorite Chefs. This celebration of David’s life included Lava Lamps, music played on vinyl records, and sharing loving memories. David will be loved and missed by many, many family members and friends. Religious services and interment for David will be held in Lynchburg, Virginia at a later date to be announced.
In lieu of sending flowers, please make contributions to one of the following organizations; South Park Inn (www.southparkinn.org/donate), and St. Elizabeth House (www.mercyhousingct.org/donate), Hartford, Connecticut. These charities support and care for women and children who are in need and for our homeless.
Thank you David for being a part of my life. I know you were skeptical about me in the beginning; however, in time you grew to accept me and love me as the friend I became to you and your family over the past 20 years. Your loss is another reminder to all of us that we need to live everyday to the fullest and cherish others with love, kindness and respect because we never know what tomorrow will bring. Rena', Jack and Christopher miss you and they are hurting deeply but you have left them with many beautiful memories they will share and cherish forever. Your Celebration of Life was another reminder of how truly special you are. …