David C. Needham

MILLBURY - David C. Needham, 82, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2023. 

He leaves his beloved wife Janet (Schunmann) Needham of Millbury, daughters Heather Walles and husband Terry of Worcester, Kathy Rivera and husband Jose of Lakeland, FL, five granddaughters Jacquelyn Walles and her wife Nichole of East Providence, RI, Samantha Peterson and her husband Walker of Burlington, MA, Julia Walles of Worcester, Kristina Kniskern and Rebecca Kniskern of Millbury. He also leaves his dear sister Cecily Martiros and sister-in-law Elizabeth Kozij, many nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends Mark and Eileen Dana. 

Son of Genevieve (Chapdeleine) and Roy Needham, David was born May 31, 1941 and lived his entire life in Millbury. A 1959 graduate of Millbury High School, he entered the U.S. Airforce after graduation. Dave spent his career working for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette in retail advertising. He was a businessman by day and a hobbyist by evening. A self-taught craftsman, he spent countless evening hours in his workshop refinishing antiques, making furniture, and doing taxidermy. David was an avid outdoorsman from the time he was in high school, and continued for many years with his close-knit group, “the Thursday Night Guys”, to time spent with his wife. He had a passion for all types of hunting and fishing.  After retiring, Dave and Janet spent twenty wonderful years continuing their adventures, horseback riding in AZ, traveling to South Africa, and enjoying their summertimes at their place on Cape Cod. They celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary this past May. Dave loved sharing his love of nature with his granddaughters. They all have many fond memories of fishing, toasting marshmallows, and spending time at the Cape with Grammy and Grampy. 

Dave's family would like to thank the staff of Shrewsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center and Unit 33 of St. Vincent Hospital for their care and kindness. They would also like to express heartfelt thanks to Josh Harpin, Ashlie and Al Knishern, and Dana and Dave Christman for their love and support during this difficult time.

Family and friends are invited to honor and remember David's life by gathering for a time of visitation on Friday, Dec. 1^st from 4 to 7 p.m. in Mulhane Home for Funerals, 45 N. Main Street in Millbury.  His funeral service will be celebrated on Saturday, Dec. 2^nd at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Central Cemetery, Millbury. 

Memorial contributions made be made in David’s name to the T & G Santa Fund at telegram.com/santa or Telegram & Gazette Santa Fund ℅ Berkshire Bank PO Box 15020 Worcester, MA 01615-0020

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