David Theodore Wahlquist Jr.

David “Ted” Wahlquist, Jr., 88, resident of Clinton, CT and The Villages, FL, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family members. Born in a farmhouse in New Fairfield on September 14, 1937, Dave was the firstborn son of David Wahlquist, Sr. and Elsie-Jean (Gammie) Wahlquist. He grew up alongside his siblings, Virginia and Elwood, in Georgetown and Fairfield. Dave spent many years of his adolescence in the Boy Scouts of America, eventually earning the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout in 1953. After graduating Roger Ludlowe High School in 1955, he immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force. As an Airman, he frequently recounted fond memories from his trainings at Air Force bases in New York, Illinois, California, South Carolina, Georgia, Bermuda, Morocco and Greenland. One of his fondest memories was when he was part of the 93rd Bomb Squadron which was the first operational unit in the U.S. Air Force to receive and use the first-of-its kind Boeing B-52 Stratofortress aircraft.

Following his Honorable Discharge from the Air Force in 1959, Dave continued his higher education at the Academy of Aeronautics in New York, prior to graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Bridgeport in 1965. While studying at the University of Bridgeport, he met his future wife, Glee Boland, whom he wed in 1966 in Woodbury, Connecticut.

Dave’s professional career included employment with Sikorsky Aircraft, General Dynamics Electric Boat, Mohawk Airlines, Allegheny Airlines, US Airways and Pratt and Whitney Aircraft. His roles primarily focused on technical support for airlines, specifically with regard to the operation of airplane engines. His position often required him to fly out to investigate the role that engines may have played at crash sites around the world. Dave’s managers would often joke that when it came to mechanical engineers, there wasn’t a problem that a slide ruler couldn’t solve.

Dave’s lifelong pursuit of knowledge and adventure, led him to also become a private pilot and avid boater. He loved the challenges of plotting a course to a new destination. Dave also enjoyed his time as a member of Freemasonry organizations in Connecticut and Pennsylvania, eventually attaining the degree of Master Mason. He was an active member of Holy Advent Church in Clinton, the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Florida, the Madison Winter Club and the Clinton Country Club. Dave was avid fan of the UConn Women’s Basketball Team and the Pittsburgh Steelers. A patriot through and through, Dave would only drive cars manufactured by Ford, including his prized collection of Ford Mustangs.

Aside from all of his lifetime accomplishments and contributions, Dave’s legacy will be that of a consummate gentleman. Everyone that knew him thought of him as a man of respect, honor, morality and integrity. Dave also charmed all that knew him with his friendly, warm hearted, humorous, and mischievousness nature. He enjoyed spending his time with family and friends. Dave will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him. Until we meet again, “wheels up” on a course for your final destination.

Dave is survived by his daughter, Kristin Salerni; grandchildren, Michael Salerni of New Britain and Laura (Marc) Daniel of Stratford; and great-grandchildren, Nicholas Salerni and John Salerni. He also leaves behind his brother Elwood (Diane) Wahlquist of Fairfield and four nieces and nephews: Edward Dulin, Jr., Susan (Rob) Gancoss, Paul Dulin and David Dulin. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Glee (Boland) Wahlquist; his parents, David and Elsie-Jean Wahlquist; and his sister Virginia Dulin. Dave will also be dearly missed by his furry companions Sophie and MiMi.

Family and friends are cordially invited to call on Friday, August 21, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home, 80 East Main Street, Clinton. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, August 22nd at 11:00 am at the Church of the Holy Advent, 81 East Main Street, Clinton. All are also invited to attend a burial service, with military honors, on Wednesday, August 26th at 1:00pm at Beaver Brook Cemetery, Old Post Road (Route 145), Clinton. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with details forthcoming.