David J. Polcari

If you ever had the joy of meeting Dave Polcari, then you know what it’s like to be instantly welcomed, genuinely seen, and made to feel like you were already family. That was Dave—our Dave—the guy who never met a stranger, never had a mean word to say, and somehow made being kind and classy look effortless.

At 62, Dave left us too soon on May 20, 2025, in his sunny slice of paradise, Punta Gorda, Florida. But in those 62 years, he packed in more laughter, generosity, and love than most manage in twice that time.

Dave graduated from Longwood High School in New York in 1980, and from there, he just kept leveling up—not in titles or accolades, but in heart. He was a proud member of the Parrot Heads in Paradise, the Charlotte Harbor Parrot Head Club, and the Sarasota Bay Parrot Heads Club. If you ever stumbled upon a handmade tiki bar, spotted a cooler scooter rolling down the street, or passed a smiling guy on an electric beach cruiser—yep, that was probably Dave.

He loved building things—not just bars or gadgets, but communities, traditions, and unforgettable moments. He lived fully, freely, and with a cold drink in hand.

Dave was married to the love of his life, Cathy, for 34 beautiful years. Together, they were a real-life love story—the kind that turns heads, softens hearts, and inspires the rest of us to love bigger and better. Cathy was his sun, his calm, his partner in everything—and Dave was hers.

He was the proud father of Amanda (Anthony) and the over-the-moon grandfather to little Aria Rose, his sunshine and joy. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Edmund, Elizabeth, and Michael (Dorene); nephews Andrew, Mikyle, Andre, and Alexander; and nieces Sarah, Stephanie and Samantha. He was preceded in death by his sister, Linda.

To many, Dave wasn’t just a friend—he was a brother. The one who always showed up, who never forgot your birthday, who made you laugh when you needed it most. First class: through and through.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal.” Dave left us with enough memories to last a lifetime and enough love to carry us forward.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dave’s honor to https://troprock.org/artistrelief/ —a cause close to his heart and spirit.

There is no formal service planned at this time. A celebration of life will be held in Key West at a later date, where we’ll raise our glasses, share stories, and remember a man who made the world feel more like home.

Rest easy, Dave. The bar’s stocked, the breeze is warm, and your seat is saved.