David John Cupp

David was born in Arlington, MA, to parents John and Barbara Cupp. He grew up with two loving siblings: Jan and Michael. 

After graduating high school, David joined the United States Army. He served in Germany as a driver for the General. Following his service, David enrolled in cosmetology school. Upon his graduation he moved to St. Petersburg, FL, in 1968. He began his career as a hair stylist at The Sears Hair Salon at Tyrone Mall. There he was known as “Mister David from Boston” to his clients. David would later purchase the salon. He continued styling and operating the salon until his retirement. Following his retirement, he enjoyed serving as a landlord to several properties in Pinellas County. 

After his arrival in St. Petersburg, FL, David met Madeline Petro. They married in 1971 in the backyard of their first home. David and Madeline shared many hobbies. They loved to host and they sure knew how to throw a party! Together they enjoyed trying new restaurants with friends, boating, cheering on the Rays, and riding their tandem bicycle. 

David was a man of many interests: photography, history, puzzles & mind benders, tennis, yard work, house repairs, and canoeing. He was an avid researcher of genealogy. He traced his maternal family line all the way back to President John Adams. David could always be talked into dessert, especially if it were frozen yogurt or gelato from Paciugos. His sweet tooth can’t be mentioned without also mentioning his love of jelly beans & hot cocoa. 

David was known for his legendary Easter Egg Hunts. What started as a simple egg hunt with money in the eggs evolved into an extravagant exercise involving protractors, compasses, shovels and knowledge of the surroundings of the Cupp home. He would spend the better part of the year planning them. We are still unsure of who enjoyed the hunts more: David or us.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Madeline. He was a loving and devoted husband. He was also preceded in death by his brother in law, James Petro.

David is survived by his brother, Michael Cupp (Debbie), sister Janice Birch, sister in law Rosemarie George (Jim), and sister in law Gloria Petro; nieces and nephews: Jennifer, Donald (Cheryl), Barbara (Raymond), and Christopher (Anita), Deana (John), Mike (Karen), OJ, Stephanie, Lisa (Mike), and Brook; great nieces and nephews: Alison, Christopher, Jacob, Michael, Katherine, Carly, Thomas, Erica, Marino (Alison), Christopher (Laura), Bella, Sal, Michelle (Luke), and Rachel (Cory); and great-great nieces and nephews: Michael, Colton, Grace, Gunner, Lily, Thomas, Adrian, and Julian and two more on the way. He is also survived by many wonderful friends.

He was a devoted husband, reliable brother, and loving uncle. He is missed beyond measure, but we know Madeline said, “What took you so long??” the moment they were reunited and that makes missing him a lot easier.