1927-2022
Captain David “Dave” Phoenix, 94, died peacefully in his Woodstock, CT home on Sunday, May 22nd, 2022.
The son of Leo and Carmine Sue (Boynton) Phoenix, he was born in Monterey Park, CA, in 1927. He enlisted in the United States Navy in May 1945 and proudly served for 33 years before retiring in January 1979. Captain Phoenix was commanding officer for several submarines during his tenure with the Navy, including the USS Skate (1968-71), USS Nathanael Greene (1971-73) and USS L. Y. Spear (1975- 1977). He was awarded numerous medals and commendations throughout his service.
David married Catherine (Jankura) on July 13, 1947, at Holy Ghost Russian Orthodox Church in Bridgeport, CT; the couple had four children. His Navy career kept the family well- traveled. They were stationed in Idaho, Hawaii, Virginia and Spain, and created memories and friendships along the way.
A devoted family-man and talented craftsman, David spent his early retirement days helping his children with home projects and ultimately building his own home. When not busy on a project, he enjoyed his downtime with a glass of Fino and a card game. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles and watching the Dallas Cowboys or UConn Women’s’ Basketball team with a bowl of popcorn.
David is survived by his wife of 74 years, two sons David (Gayle) of N. Stonington, CT, and Paul (Lindsay) of Philomath, OR, and one daughter Nancy (Chris) of Dayville, CT. He was the beloved “PopPop” to eight grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He was predeceased in death by his daughter, Loretta (Ken) of N. Penobscot, ME, two half-sisters and one grandson.
The family would like to give a special thank you to caregiver Ezinne Alozie and the Day Kimball Hospital Hospice team for their care and support.
Funeral services are private and have been entrusted to the Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam, CT. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com
Marilyn pilipaitis
So sorry for the loss of this special man.
Steve Ricard
Mrs. Phoenix, Dave, Gayle and family,
Sorry to hear about the passing of Captain Phoenix. The crew gathered last week and his name was brought up a number of times. I know that he would have loved to spent some time reminiscing with old Shipmates from the Nathanael Greene. He pinned my dolphins on in August 1973. Again our condolences from the USS Nathanael Greene.
Sailor Rest Your Oars, we have the watch.
Respectfully,
Steve Ricard
Linda Fouche’
Dear Mrs Phoenix, You were the First CO’ s wife to show me the ropes in 1973. Remember you & the Capt. fondly. Am so sorry for your loss.
The Compton Family
Phoenix Family,
Sharing our deepest condolences. As newer neighbors to David, we appreciated his engagement over the last few years and will miss him. Not knowing of his storied military career, we knew of him as a welcoming neighbor and proud home builder/home owner. Our family will miss seeing him on the deck, conversations at the mailbox, and watching him tend to his bird feeders. Please reach out with anything you need.
Sincerely,
Jen, Justin, Kennedy, Delaney and Maeve Compton
Carmen D. Santana-Perocier
Dearest Catherine
Please accept our heartfelt condolances on the lost of David who was your husband, partner and friend for so many years. When you find yourself missing him try to remember all the wonderful memories you made together throughout all those wonderful years.
With all our love and prayers for you and family
Carmen and Ralph Perocier
Brooklyn, New York