David Belanger

David Leonard Belanger, 70, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, in Hartford, Connecticut. Born on September 18, 1955, in Middletown, Connecticut, David lived a life full of passion, dedication, and love for his family and community.

Those who knew David will remember him for his infectious laugh and great big smile—hallmarks of a man who brought warmth wherever he went. He was smart and kind-hearted with an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

A proud graduate of the Class of 1973 at Howell Cheney Technical School in Manchester, David studied Automotive—a field that would become both his lifelong career and personal passion. Known to many as the friendly face behind Dave's Getty in Manchester, he built a successful gas station and automotive repair shop that became a local staple. His mechanical expertise and warm demeanor made him a trusted figure in the community.

David was also a volunteer firefighter for many years, starting with the South Windsor volunteer fire department while in high school, and continued serving with the Manchester fire department, driving the trucks and putting out fires.

In a remarkable chapter of his life, David and his family moved across the world to Africa. There, he shared his extensive automotive knowledge by teaching local auto shops—an experience that reflected both his generosity and commitment to empowering others through skill and education.

After returning to Connecticut, David transitioned from cars to cuisine when he and his family reopened the Tasty Chick restaurant in Vernon around 2001. The venture marked another successful endeavor before he eventually retired from the workforce to enjoy well-earned time with loved ones.

David's interests were as vibrant as his personality. He had an enduring love for racing, he won several awards in his early adult years. Whether it was remote control cars or jeeps tearing through the mud, he was a true car enthusiast at heart. He found joy in working on vehicles, teaching others about them, and simply being behind the wheel.

When not under the hood of a car or cheering on a race, David could be found immersed in a good thriller or mystery novel. Reading was one of his favorite pastimes; he often stayed up late into the night lost in the pages of a gripping story. He also had a fondness for crossword puzzles—rushing home after work to tackle them with determination until every square was filled.

David is survived by his devoted fiancée Carol McLaughlin and their cherished dog Snowball. He leaves behind two beautiful daughters, Kristina St. Amant and Jessica Garcia; sons-in-law Christopher St. Amant and David Garcia; and eight beloved grandchildren: Nathan Cruz, Ivy Aniello, Shawn Sauer, Ethan Belanger, Raelynn Ackerson, Emma Garcia, Bodhi Garcia, and Ruby Garcia. He is also survived by his sisters Linda Chenard, Lori Montuano, and Joyce Eichacker.

He was predeceased by his parents Leonard and Yvonne Belanger and his brother Richard Belanger.

May David's memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

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