David L. Christopher

On August 13, 2020, David L. Christopher departed this world for angels and rewards that awaited him. He was a resident of south Florida for most of his life, and he and his wife lived in Port St. Lucie at the time of his passing.

David touched lives that were made richer for having known him. He left behind his beloved family: his wife, Ines Christopher, daughters Kelley Christopher Barlow (Ben) and Carol Christopher Christie (Eddie), his sister, Carmella (Chris) Christopher Kelsey (Loretta Ann), a step-son, Aldo Brando and five grandchildren: Jim, Molly, Emily, Abbey and Lilly, who knew him as “Big Dad,” and loved him dearly. Of his many friends who held a special place in his heart, most important was his friend of 73 years, Richard Willis and Richard’s wife Barbara.

David was born in Gloversville, New York on March 1, 1940. His mother, Marian Close Christopher, and father, Dominick L. Christopher moved the family to Holly Hill and Daytona Beach, Florida when David was seven. David was a graduate of Mainland High School and of University of Miami, where he attended on a band scholarship and played in the “Band of the Hour.” While at University of Miami he received the highest achievable honor, the Iron Arrow award.

The majority of David’s career was in the travel industry where he held a multitude of positions for several airlines and cruise lines; most notably, Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL), and Costa Cruises, where he retired from the industry as Executive Vice President. Of course, he could not just retire so David then became an adjunct professor at Johnson and Wales University, and a mentor for SCORE.

David maintained relationships with scores of people with whom he worked over the years, and who called him their dear friend and mentor. He will be greatly missed; however, the light of his soul will remain a comfort to all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Church by the Sea, in Fort Lauderdale, after the COVID-19 pandemic is over. In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts be sent to University of Miami band program, Habitat for Humanity, or to a charity of your choice.

Please visit, www.never-gone/Memorials/DavidChristopher , his memorial page, which has been set up for family and friends to share prayers, thoughts, and memories.