David Donald Kehaya

September 2, 1967 – July 26, 2022

David Donald "Dave" Kehaya, 54, of Clermont, FL, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2022, after a lengthy illness. He was the beloved husband of Michelle Kehaya, and loving father of Elise Kehaya, Lily Kehaya, and Alexis Kehaya.

David was born on September 2, 1967, in Manchester, CT. He graduated from Manchester High School in 1985 and went on to attend New England Technical Institute. A hardworking and multi-talented man with a passion for working with his hands, David worked in the construction industry for most of his adult life, most recently as an Independent Manufacturers' Representative. He was the recipient of several distinguished awards for sales and leadership in the industry. David had a strong faith in the Lord and was a devoted member of Woodlands Lutheran Church.

In 1998, David met the love of his life, Michelle Bartholomew. Active and adventurous, the couple traveled throughout the United States together, visiting twenty-five of the country's glorious national parks. Both music enthusiasts, David and Michelle attended countless live musical performances together. On September 6, 2003, the couple was married on beautiful Cape Cod. They settled down in Colebrook, CT, where they started their family. In 2014, the family moved to Clermont.

The simple pleasures in life brought David great joy. He deeply cherished his family and made their well-being his priority. Whether at home, visiting the beach, or vacationing in the mountains, David loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed following all New England sports and was a diehard Red Sox and Patriots fan. David loved nature and spending time outdoors hiking, fishing, and boating. He also enjoyed restoring classic cars, cooking, learning about history, watching movies, and listening to good music.

David, who was very outgoing, seemed to make friends out of strangers everywhere he went. He enjoyed good conversation and was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was the life of the party and loved to make people laugh. Kind and compassionate, David was always there with a big hug when needed. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his strong will, determination, and courage in facing life's challenges. David's life was filled with love and grounded in faith. He will be deeply missed by the many lives he touched.

In addition to his wife and children, David is survived by his mother, Wilma Knight and stepfather, John Knight; father, Donald Kehaya and stepmother, Susan Richardson-Kehaya; stepbrothers, Rodney Knight, Seth Richardson and Ethan Richardson; grandmother, Alice Kulis; godmother, Jeannie Martin; godfather, Gregory Kehaya; a host of dear aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, friends, and his loyal dog, Ginger.

To honor David's memory, remember to live life with kindness, humor, gratitude, and a positive attitude.

A celebration of life will be held at 6:30 pm on Friday, August 12, 2022, at Woodlands Lutheran Church, 15333 County Road 455, Montverde, FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David's name to Woodlands Lutheran Church's youth fund or building fund.

"You're my blue sky, you're my sunny day."