David Lawrence Croft

South Dennis, MA - David Lawrence Croft passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on November 23, 1938 in Lynn, Massachusetts, David was the son of the late Walter and Flora (Hennigar) Croft and the loving husband of Andrea (Santiago) Croft. A proud Navy veteran and devoted family man, David lived a long and meaningful life marked by service, strength, and quiet dignity.

David was raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, as the youngest of five, and graduated from Lynn Classical High School. After serving in the United States Navy, David built a distinguished career with the National Weather Service, where he served the federal government for nearly 40 years. His service, love of adventure, and the outdoors took him many places—including Alaska, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and Greene, New York—before he and Andrea retired on Cape Cod, in South Dennis, Massachusetts, a place he deeply loved, cherished, and called home for over 30 years.

David was a devoted and loving husband who shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Andrea. Their bond was a cornerstone of his life. His devotion to Andrea never wavered — especially in her later years when she required long-term care. David visited her daily, often arriving with fl owers or gifts, and on their anniversary, he would bring in their wedding album to share. A devoted advocate for Andrea, he formed close ties with the nurses and staff who cared for her. Over time, they became like family, surrounding them both with warmth and compassion.

David was a loving father to three children and found great joy in sharing his passions with them. He is survived by his beloved wife, Andrea, and their children: Alysse Daches; Ariane Croft; and Michael Croft and his wife, Kate (Bliss) Croft. David was also a proud grandfather to four granddaughters: Madison Daches, Maria Viola, Paige Croft, and Grace Croft.

David was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Verna Lynch; his brother, Robert Croft; and his sister-in-law, Alicia Sanchez. He is survived by his loving sisters, Mary Welsh and Irene Kingsley, sisters-in-law Carmine Berrios and Amalia LaPorta, and brothers-in-law George Sanchez, Gerry Santiago, and Danny Santiago, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

An avid outdoorsman, David’s deep appreciation for nature shaped much of his life. From the rugged beauty of Alaska to the tranquil shores of Cape Cod, he found lasting joy in the natural world and the communities that surrounded it. In retirement, he volunteered with the Barnstable Association for Recreational Shellfishing (BARS) and the Cape Cod Salties—teaching children to clam and fish, and helping to plant seagrass to restore scallop habitats. He also spent countless hours repairing fishing reels and crafting custom rods — a quiet and patient pursuit that reflected both his steady hands and generous spirit.

David had a remarkable ability to connect with others, including neighbors, coworkers, and friends. He had a gift for forming deep and lasting bonds, many of which he maintained throughout his life. He never missed a weekly phone call or chance to check in, offer support, or share a laugh. His warmth, sense of humor, and sincere interest in people left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial services in celebration of David’s life will be held privately by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barnstable Association for Recreational Shellfishing, P.O. Box 57, West Barnstable, MA 02668. The family also invites those wishing to honor David’s memory to donate their time and volunteer at their favorite charity in a meaningful way.