David Alan Balch

Born in Winchester, Massachusetts, on January 28, 1955, Dave spent much of his childhood in Wilmington, Massachusetts, where he often reminisced about the wonderful memories and lifelong friendships that shaped him. His family later moved to Boynton Beach, Florida, where he graduated from Atlantic High School in Delray Beach in 1973.

Dave's strong work ethic began early. At just 13 years old, he started working summers at Captain Higgins Seafood Restaurant, beginning a lifelong connection to the restaurant business. After working as a plasterer's laborer and later becoming a licensed plumber in West Palm Beach, Florida, he eventually returned to Captain Higgins Seafood Restaurant, where he proudly managed the family business from 1987 until 2004. He took immense pride in serving generations of customers and building lasting friendships through the restaurant.

Although dedicated to his work, Dave never stopped learning. He graduated as the top American History student at the University of Massachusetts Boston in 1985, earning the prestigious Crown Fellowship, a full scholarship that allowed him to continue his studies in American History at Brandeis University from 1985 to 1987. His love of history led him to write A History of Wellfleet, 1860–1980, reflecting a lifelong curiosity about the people and stories that came before us.

Dave had countless passions that brought joy to his life. He was a devoted oenophile who carefully built a world-class wine collection in a temperature- and humidity-controlled cellar. In one of the greatest acts of love a father can give, he sold that cherished collection in 2001 to pay for his daughter Valerie's college education—a sacrifice he never regretted.

He was an exceptional cook, an avid reader of Robert B. Parker novels, and a passionate student of history. He was also a die-hard New England Patriots fan, proudly holding season tickets for many years. Sundays in the fall were reserved for football, and cheering on the Patriots (and yelling at the TV) was one of life's greatest traditions.

Whether discussing football, history, or one of his many adventures, Dave's stories and unmistakable sense of humor drew people in and left them smiling. If you knew Dave, you probably have a story to tell. And if you don't, he'd probably have had one to tell you.

Of all the roles Dave held throughout his life, none meant more to him than being a husband, father, father-in-law, and Grampy. He adored his grandson, Nathaniel "Nate" David Lazzari. When Nate was diagnosed with autism, Dave embraced the opportunity to understand him better. He read everything he could, met Nate exactly where he was, celebrated him for exactly who he was, and built a relationship filled with patience, acceptance, laughter, and unconditional love.

Dave had a lifelong love of Siberian Huskies and raised three litters over the years. That love, combined with his gift for storytelling, inspired him to become a published children's author.

He wrote countless husky adventure stories just for Nate, always hoping to spark his imagination, and dreamed of the day they would go fishing together. In 2021, he fulfilled another dream by publishing The Littlest Husky in the Land of the Ice Warriors, inspired by his grandson and their special bond. At the time of his passing, Dave was working on his first novel.

Dave will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud father-in-law, a loyal friend, and the kind of grandfather every child deserves. His wisdom, generosity, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.

Dave is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Linda Balch; his daughter, Valerie Lazzari, and son-in-law, Tom Lazzari; his cherished grandson, Nathaniel David "Nate" Lazzari; his sisters, Carol Case and Jeanne Coser; his brother, Mark Balch; his mother-in-law, Dorothy Rockwell; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure the stories, laughter, and love he shared throughout his life.

Per Dave's request, there will be no public services. His family will hold a private celebration of his life.

Though he is deeply missed, his family finds comfort knowing that his stories, his lessons, and his love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave’s memory to a non profit organization close to his heart, Stamford Education 4 Autism https://www.stamfordeducation4autism.org/donate