David E. Weidlich, Sr., 85, of East Haddam, beloved husband of Sheila Weidlich, passed away on Friday January 16, 2026, at Hartford Hospital. He was born in Hartford, son of the late Ernest H. and Theresa (Howard) Weidlich.
Besides his wife Sheila, David is survived by his son David Weidlich, Jr. and his wife Amy, son Daniel Weidlich and his wife Kimberly, grandsons Nicholas and Jeffrey, great grandson Walker and son Darren Weidlich; brothers and sisters Lorraine Blinn, Nancy Ward, James and his wife Carol, Susan Dickinson and her husband Hugh, Thomas and his wife Sue and sister-in-law Gay Weidlich as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and a never ending list of friends. He was predeceased by his brother Robert and brother-in-law Raymond Blinn Sr.
Dave was a man of service, skill, and conversation. A proud Navy veteran, he served aboard the Destroyer USS Beatty DD756, carrying with him a deep sense of duty that stayed with him throughout his life. After his service, he followed in family footsteps as a second-generation telephone man at SNET, where he was known for his dedication and love of the work. After retiring from SNET he started his own communications company and continued to perform the work he enjoyed for many years. With his hands, he could make or fix almost anything. He built furniture, carved ducks and birds, crafted pens, and invented little gadgets just because he could. Woodworking wasn’t just a hobby for him, it was how he expressed patience, creativity, and care. He cherished the time spent sailing with Sheila all across Long Island Sound which yielded many adventures over the years. He enjoyed golfing in many leagues with friends and family. He loved the community he lived in and the people who filled it. He was also a friend to everyone he met. He never passed up a chance for a good conversation, whether with a longtime friend or a total stranger. He listened, shared stories, and made people feel seen. He leaves behind not just the things he built, but the connections he made, the lessons he taught, and the quiet example of a life lived with purpose, curiosity, and kindness.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on Monday April 20th at 12 p.m. at the State Veterans’ Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown CT 06457.
Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Animal Shelter and Pet Adoptions Connecticut | Protectors of Animals. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.
