David Emerson Barnes

Losing David was hard as I got to know him from the many times that I took him home from one of our Rotary meetings. A funny story was the first time I pulled in the driveway, I said to him, "Do you really own this home?" to me he replied, "Yes". I was one of the 30 or so Realtors who waited in line one cold Winter morning to preview the home. My client was disappointed, and yet I am glad that it was purchased by the kind man, David Barnes. Hugs my friend.

Losing David was a shock to our Rotary Club of Dover, NH. He was an active member who participated in our projects and offered his opinions and advice. He is missed and think of him often. Our sympathy go out to his loved ones and family.
Harry Cheney, President, Rotary Club of Dover

May 07, 2025

It’s hard to put into words the positive impact that Dave had on those of us who were fortunate enough to meet or know him, whether a casual acquaintance or a friend of many years. He was a lifelong expert of his occupational craft in wine and beverages, his knowledge and passion were unmatched, always ready to share a great bottle, a new discovery, or a quirky fact about his latest find. Whether it was a rich Bordeaux, a fresh squeezed lime margarita or popping the cork on a nice Spanish Cava off the stern at sunset, he had a way of making every sip, slurp or gulp feel memorable.

He was an original character like no other—imagine a golfer with a recurring extreme slice yet the spirit of a true PGA champion, an aging surfer with his odd but memorable belly flop when crashing into the surf and a "Rube Goldberg School" graduate who could make even the simplest fix-it task an entertaining failure..... yet the effort was always applauded by all including David. He was frugal, not out of necessity but because he saw beauty in the simplest things and always believed in making the most of what you had. His home storage cabinet included a multi-generational collection of hardware including used bent nails, rusty screws and dull tools. The storage area was also known as the "horror" closet and I can assure you the name fit well. David also enjoyed helping anyone or offering advice. Passing the torch: I recall multiple times Dave teaching and quizzing the younger generation on "old school" science and history. The kids were not quite sure what to make of Dave's teachings but they participated and perhaps tolerated as best they could. I expect they have fond memories as well.

Beyond Dave's strong work ethic and passion for gatherings and celebrations, what always stood out to me was his love for his long time partner Deb where over many years they built a life together full of laughter, adventure and memories. I have many fond recollections of the two of you including the time you both tipped over a canoe while attempting to board in knee deep water. Surprisingly, there was no alcohol involved.

Dave knew how to live life fully, embracing each day with a sense of joy and purpose that was infectious. His love for Deb, spending time at the beach, stocking up on Nantucket pumpernickel, hosting and visiting friends and family and always having a daily purpose. While working diligently through such random chores, Dave would often express the thought, "there's not many of us left". Fair winds and following seas my good friend. You are truly missed.

David was a kind and gentle soul that lit up a room. His great smile and laughter was so welcoming to us all. To me, he was a fun Cousin we loved to be around! One of my best memories was at the pool and David was helping me take my one and a half dive off the board and do a double flip. He said” What’s the worst that can happen? I said, I could smack really hard. He said,”You’re in water!
So, I tried and I did smack, hard! David said to wait a few minutes and try again. I did it!! It made my day! I will remember David fondly because he made me smile. I’m so glad he had Deb, because she, made him smile!!
Dottie Norris