David Julian Elias

David Julian Elias, of New Britain CT, aged 71, passed away unexpectedly at his office/residence on February 28th after a brief illness. David was born on February 4th, 1954 at New Britain General Hospital, the son of Dzidra Elias and the late Julian Elias. Dave was a 1972 graduate of Pulaski High School in New Britain CT. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts degree from SUNY Buffalo in New York, and a Master of Arts from the University of Houston in Texas, both degrees in Architecture. He also was a long time member of the American Institute of Architects. Initially, Dave worked for architectural firms in Houston TX and Farmington CT before starting his own successful architecture business in New Britain CT. Dave’s father, Julian, was also an accomplished and well-respected architect. Dave built a large and diverse clientele and his congenial personality led to many long term friendships with many of his clients. Not only did they respect the talented architect that he was, they enjoyed his company and insightful and witty humor and comments. Dave was a generous member of various organizations including the New Britain Museum of Modern Art, The Nature Conservancy and the Arbor Day Foundation. He very much enjoyed travelling, hiking, and spending time at the Rhode Island shore, either sitting or walking on the beach, or frequenting some favorite watering holes on the beach to watch the waves roll in. Dave also liked to explore – when he attended events he never sat in one place for long, rather, he’d like to roam around the event venue, checking out how it was constructed and what the venue had to offer. He was always very perceptive, and recognized details that ordinary people would probably overlook. Dave was a dedicated and devoted son to his mother, Dzidra, and cared deeply for her. He loved taking her to enjoy a day at the beach, visiting art museums and attending art shows and concerts. Dave particularly enjoyed accompanying his mother on several trips to her native Latvia and the Baltics. In a similar vein, he was always ready to join his brothers and friends on travel adventures throughout Europe, South America and Africa. Dave is survived by his mother, Dzidra, of New Britain CT, and younger brothers Peter, of Ft Lauderdale FL, and Ronald of Houston TX. Dave was predeceased by his father, Julian Elias, aunt, uncle and cousin Arvids, Zenta and Janis Dauge of MA, and aunt and uncle Nelly and Zigurds (Zigi) Liepa of CT. He is also survived by his remaining cousins Erica Keene (nee Dauge) and her husband Richard, Robert Liepa and his wife Deborah, Raymond Liepa and his wife Beth, and Christine Nardello (nee Liepa) and her husband Michael. Not only is he survived by several relatives, he is also survived by countless friends and acquaintances – whom all loved him and will miss him deeply.

Calling Hours will be held at New Britain Memorial-Sagarino Funeral Home 444 Farmington Ave. New Britain, CT on May 3, 2025 from 3:30PM to 4:30PM followed by A Celebration of Life Service from 4:30PM to 5:00PM. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Britain Museum of Modern Art.