David Richard Dearborn

David Richard Dearborn, 87, of Norwalk, CT, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024 at Wilton Meadows nursing home, surrounded by his loving family, one day shy of his 88th birthday. David was a native of Torrington, Connecticut, born in 1936, to the late George Dearborn and Bernice (Kelly) Dearborn.  He had three siblings - Bryon (his identical twin), Barry, and Susan. He graduated from Terryville High School in the town of Plymouth, CT, as well as The Hartford Institute of Criminology, and the University of Connecticut.  He also studied at John Jay College of Criminal Justice.  He had a long and successful career at Pinkerton’s Inc. for 25 years, doing private investigations work, and retired as Assistant Vice President and Director of Investigations.  He then established a private investigations firm, Security Services in CT, where he remained for 7 years, and then Brockway Associates in White Plains, New York for 6 years. 

David is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Natalie (Piatkowsky Rusiecki) Dearborn of Norwalk CT, whom he adored; two daughters from his first marriage (the late Cynthia Coppeto Dearborn), Linda Dearborn of Norwalk CT, and Deborah Greene (John) of Milford, CT; and his two beloved granddaughters Jesse Greene and Lola Knadler.  In addition, he is survived by his twin brother Bryon Dearborn and his wife Nellie of Ridgefield, CT; six nieces and nephews; and close members of his wife Natalie’s family, Tom and Sindi Knadler of New Canaan, CT.  

A long-time resident, David loved living in the picturesque Silvermine area of Norwalk with his wife Natalie, whom he affectionately called ‘Bun,’ and they were regular patrons of the Silvermine Tavern over the years.  Together they also spent a lot of time in Newport, RI during the summer months at their vacation home over many years, and were sometimes joined by other family members, kids and grandkids.  He very much enjoyed restaurants, frequently dining out, and appreciated fine dining.  An avid Red Sox fan, David attended several baseball games at Fenway Park stadium in Boston.  He could always be seen wearing clothing from his favorite store, Orvis, and had a keen sense of style.  He was especially family oriented and always had strong family ties as his most important priority.  He particularly loved the holidays and Christmas, and spending time together with the family and extended family. 

In his younger years, David was an enthusiastic skier, with many vacations and time spent at Vermont ski areas such as Mount Snow, and at the family vacation house in West Halifax, VT.  He loved Bluegrass music and attended Smokey Greene’s annual Bluegrass Festivals in upstate New York’s Adirondacks with the family each summer for years, and camping out in tents. Years back David was a talented auctioneer with his two brothers at the family’s side business, Dearborn Auctions, and they travelled all over Connecticut holding estate auctions. He served as an army reservist, was a member of the Rotary Club, and a big fan of the Pink Panther movies. 

David loved life and laughter. He was a very charming, upbeat, positive,and fun person with a mischievous side, and a jokester with a corny and amusing sense of humor. He could make anyone smile. As David was very fond of Irish Pubs, at times folks calling his house phone were greeted with his humor, as he would answer the phone: “Duffy’s tavern, Duffy speaking!” 

David and his twin brother Bryon shared a special bond and a unique closeness over many years, and were always joking around and playing tricks on those in the family!  They were the life of the party at family gatherings, and would enjoy singing songs and smoking cigars together. They delighted in each other’s company very deeply.

David was adaptable, agreeable, and kind-hearted, with a penchant for orderliness. With his sweet and gentle nature, he touched the lives of many people, and all who knew him appreciated his warm smile and friendly demeanor.  David was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all.

The family would like to thank the entire nursing staff at Wilton Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation for the compassionate care they offered David during his final months. The genuine concern and kindness shown to him there is very much appreciated, and he often told us how much he liked his nurses and aides.

At David’s request there will be no calling hours, or Church funeral services.  A private graveside memorial service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Waterbury, CT in the coming weeks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Red Cross in David’s memory: https://www.redcross.org