Obituary of David Howard Tewes
David Howard Tewes, a man of sincere dedication and resonant passions, passed away at BayShore Medical Center in Holmdel, NJ, on November 5, 2023 at the age of 68. Born on December 10, 1954, in Elizabeth, NJ, to Glenn David Tewes and Catherine Teresa Howard Tewes, David's early roots were in Plainfield, he spent a formative two decades in Avenel, and ultimately found his heart's home in Keyport, NJ.
A proud alumnus of Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen, Dave's remarkable career journey began at Chemetall Oakite right after graduation. His tenacity and work ethic shone through as he climbed the ranks from the mailroom to become an esteemed IT Administrative Professional. His retirement in 2019 marked an impressive 46 year tenure with a single company, a testament to his loyalty and hard work.
Dave's passions painted the picture of a life well-lived and thoroughly enjoyed. A die-hard Bruce Springsteen fan, he found solace and excitement in music, which led him to an enjoyable stint as a DJ in his youth. His allegiance to the New York Yankees was more than a pastime—it was a series of cherished memories and celebrated victories. His love for NASCAR went beyond the races; he meticulously crafted model miniatures, a hobby that showcased his attention to detail and patience. His love of hockey led to youth coaching certificates, owning his Ice Time, Inc. business, running hockey clinics and an equipment shop, and coaching PeeWee and Squirt amateur youth teams to various championships in the late 1980s, all with his best friend Joe Ferrara. As a true local sports enthusiast, Dave rooted for the New York Rangers and the New York Giants.
His love for music encompassed all genres, and his soul was truly at peace with the sound of waves, the warmth of the sun, and a relaxing walk along the beach or boardwalk. Colleagues fondly remember Dave's daily "lunch walk," a ritual that underscored his appreciation for being outdoors. Dave's connection to the earth and nature was profound. An avid gardener, he found joy and tranquility in the art of gardening, nurturing his plants with the same care and dedication that he applied to every aspect of his life. His gardens were a harmonious blend of vibrant flowers and lush vegetables, each seedling tenderly cultivated to full bloom under his watchful eye.
The beauty and bounty of his gardens were not only a testament to his skill and patience but also reflected the colorful and generous nature of his soul. Whether tending to his floral arrangements or his vegetable patch, Dave's gardening was yet another expression of his love for life and the simple pleasures it brings.
Dave was predeceased by his sister, Gayle Tewes.
He is survived by his daughter, Colleen Papson, and her husband, Scott, a source of immense pride and joy in his life. His siblings—Danny Tewes, Bethanne O'Leary and her husband Robert, Julie Porter, Mary Kay Tewes, and sister-in-law Laura Spaulding will remember him as a foundational part of their family. He also leaves behind his aunt Mary Lou Dunn; 12 nieces and nephews; 9 great-nieces and great-nephews; with another on the way, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
In Dave's memory, donations may be made to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the Wounded Warrior Project, organizations that reflect the depth of his compassion, the breadth of his care for others, and his patriotic spirit.
David Howard Tewes lived a life as rich and full as the music he loved, as storied as the baseball games he followed, and as dynamic as the races he watched. He may have been a man of few words, but his life was a symphony of dependable love, passionate pursuits, and quiet strength. We bid him farewell with heavy hearts, knowing that his legacy is as enduring as the records of Springsteen, as timeless as the game of baseball, as thrilling as the roar of a NASCAR engine, and as bright as the Stanley Cup. Rest in peace, David; your melody plays on.
A visitation will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.
