David Allen Sermersheim, 81, Connecticut
David Allen Sermersheim, 81, of Westbrook, Conn., passed away on August 27, 2019, at home.
He was born on September 25, 1937, in Jasper to Silas and Martha (Jager) Sermersheim.
David was the chairman of the music department at The Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, Lakeville, Conn. for 33 years. David was first and foremost an educator. He never missed an opportunity to enlighten his students, family, friends or acquaintances about music, literature, poetry, or a multitude of other topics. During his tenure at Hotchkiss, he worked tirelessly to build his department into a top rate music program. He was creative and innovative. Always seeking new ways to bring out the best in his students and showcase their talents. He was an accomplished musician and composer in his own right.
In retirement, David turned from playing music to writing poetry and published a book of his poems in 2014. David never stopped learning and his curiosity led him in many directions throughout his life.
David will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched.
David is survived by his wife Sarah; son Michael Sermersheim and his wife Kara of Australia; grandchildren Silas and Polly; and his sister Julia Sermersheim of Santa Claus.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
David was my classmate and band mate throughout our days at Jasper schools, and we played together in dance bands several years. He is undoubtedly the best musician I have had the privilege to know,. He lived for music, and he could move from instrument to instrument easily. His ability on the clarinet was the crowning jewel to our JHS band’s winning the 1954 State Fair title. Friend! Rest, David, Rest!!
Dave’s Family, Sorry for the loss of your precious loved one, Dave. I too was in the class of ’55 and also a band member along with Dave and John and others. We were proud of our accomplishments. I like the photo of Dave standing by St Joseph Church. He was back for our last class reunion or the one before. In fact i think that’s when that picture was taken. I hadn’t seen him in many years. My memory is not serving me well ;/) but I do remember him being there for a reunion. He was a super guy and will be missed. Prayers and sympathy, Sarah Berger Humphrey Muncie IN R.I.P. Dave