David William Colegrove's Obituary
David William Colegrove
November 12, 1963 – May 12, 2025
David William Colegrove, age 61 beloved father and grandfather passed away on May 12, 2025.
Born on November 12,1963 to Richard Frank Colegrove and Elizabeth (Baker) Colegrove, Dave grew up in New Castle, DE and spent his summers in Oak Orchard, DE doing what he loved to do - fishing, crabbing, and waterskiing. After one year at William Penn High School, the family decided to make the beach their permanent residence.
A graduate of Sussex Central HS, Dave excelled in wrestling and worked at Shorts Marine as a certified marine mechanic.
Dave eventually returned to New Castle to pursue a career in electric. He completed Delcastle’s apprenticeship program, earned a master’s license, and owned his own business for 25 years. He later took a hiatus and worked for the Sussex Correctional Institute’s electrical maintenance department for 7 years and left as a Staff Sargent.
Dave had many passions. He was an avid reader and boater, enjoyed listening to music, dancing, and cheering on his favorite team, the Philadelphia Eagles. He was a great cook and famous for his pulled pork and extremely hot chili he enjoyed making for an Eagles game.
He especially loved spending time with his kids whether it was coaching Alexa and Meg’s softball teams, assisting with Zach’s pop warner football games, or spending countless summers sharing with them his ultimate passion - waterskiing. His favorite spots were Oak Orchard’s Indian River and Milton’s Red Mill Pond. It was no surprise that Dave had his kids skiing as early as four years old. Not only did Dave teach his own kids to ski, but anyone lucky enough to be on the boat, would be getting a lesson on the pond.
Dave was predeceased by his father Richard Colegrove and brother Dennis Colegrove.
Dave is survived by his three children: Alexa Billings (Jesse), Meghan Colegrove (Jeramey Lynch), Zachary Colegrove (Liz), his mother Elizabeth (Betty) Colegrove, brothers Rick Colegrove (Nina), Alan Colegrove (Stacey), and granddaughters Lily Lynch and Stella Billings.
Dave had a smile and charm that would warm the room. He made life feel a little lighter, a little less serious, and a lot more fun.
Please join us for a celebration of life at Irish Eyes in Lewes on Tuesday May 20, 2025 at 3 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SPCA, 22918 DuPont Blvd, Georgetown, DE 19947.
Please sign Dave's tribute wall at this site.
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