David Paul Festa passed away suddenly at home on July 5, 2025.  He was called home to be with his Lord Jesus at the age of 55 years old.  Born at Yale New Haven Hospital on February 8, 1970. Predeceased by grandparents Anthony and Mary Pinto, and several aunts and uncles.  Survived by his loving and devoted partner of 25 years, Janis Piotrowski, and his adoring son, David Joseph Festa.  He is also survived by his parents, Robert and Frances Festa of Farmington, CT, and his brother, Robert Festa and sister-in-law, Mary (Falcione,) of Chelsea, MA.  He will be lovingly remembered by nine cousins, and also by the families of Michael and Deanna (David) Piotrowski, and Dennis and Marifrances (Trivelli) Piotrowski.  There were many friends throughout the years with whom special memories and great laughter were shared.

David was highly respected in his 22 year career at ESPN, traveling the world and earning multiple Emmy Awards in his field of Managing Director.  He was very proud of his work ethic and specialized skill set.  People relied on Dave Festa’s expertise.  However, he was extremely humble in regard to his achievements, always feeling there was room for improvement…never truly believing his best was good enough, despite the fact that there were so many great accomplishments.

David spent his final years fiercely loving his family and animals.  He fought his inner turmoil and pain within a very flawed mental health system that failed him repeatedly.  His fight was brave and tremendous, but in the end he was so very tired.  He did not lose.  In his own words, he “Transitioned back to Source.”  There is no more anxiety, only PEACE.

He had expressed hope in one day being an advocate for men’s mental health and wellness.  Ending the stigma was a priority.   In honor of David, please consider checking in on the quiet ones, the strong ones, and the ones who seem like they’re holding it all together.  Mental health matters, especially for men who are so often told to carry it alone.  Ask questions.  Have uncomfortable conversations.  Understand that when someone doesn’t reach out, you may need to reach in.  It could save a life.

If you have a loved one that is struggling, speak up…Loud and Often, because the system that is designed to help is broken.  David is someone who lived to help others and getting this message out would be the legacy he wanted.

Please remember him for his sense of humor, his love of family, friends, animals, nature, music and the pursuit of knowledge.  He was also very fond of the perfect chicken cutlet, which could best be found in his Mom’s kitchen on his birthday.  He was dedicated to connecting with strangers on his daily walks and making sure he left them with a smile.  He believed this was the way to make the world a better place.

The family would like to give special thanks to the First Congregational Church of Southington, whose love and support over the years has truly shown us what it means to walk with Christ.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory can be made to First Congregational Church of Southington, in gratitude for the compassion extended to our family.  Contributions can be mailed to: 

FCC Southington

37 Main Street 

Southington, CT 06489

Or made online at:

https://fccsouthington.org/gi…

 (Go to the menu in the left corner, click on Give, Give Online.)

David Paul Festa

1970 ~ 2025

Your life was a blessing.

Your memory a treasure.

You are loved beyond words,

And missed beyond measure.

***No public service is planned at this time. 

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