DAVID ALBERT GIESSELMAN

December 6, 1957 - February 29, 2020

David Albert Giesselman, 62 of Simbury, Connecticut met his Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 29, 2020. David passed after battling prostate cancer with dignity, character, and his wonderful sense of humor.

David was born December 6, 1957 in Syracuse, New York. He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 29 years, Rena’ Marcelle Petty-Hickman Giesselman and his adoring sons, Jack Brooks Giesselman and Christopher Michael Giesselman. He is also survived by his brother Kurt Michael Giesselman, sister-in-law Janet Giesselman and niece Connor Giesselman; sister Antoni Louise ‘Toni’ Giesselman Barnett Hobbs and brother-in-law Michael Wayne Hobbs, nieces Shaina Barnett Stringer and Rachel Barnett, nephews Jason Barnett and Micheal Barnett; along with three grand nieces, five grand nephews, and numerous, aunts, uncles, cousins, and sister and brother-in-law. He is also survived by his beloved childhood friend, Ned Hudson of Lynchburg, Virginia and many, many friends. David was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Carl and Jacqueline Joan Giesselman of Lynchburg, Virginia, and his daughter Azlee Keller Hickman of Charlottesville, Virginia.

David studied mechanical engineering and computer science at Lynchburg College and the University of Virginia. He was with DataCAD from the very beginning of its birth as one of the founding members in Charlottesville, Virginia thirty-six years ago. In October of 1996, David started a new chapter in his life and co-founded DATACAD LLC of Simsbury, Connecticut and became the Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice-President. David loved his life-long project of continually improving DataCAD, and was often kept awake at night while considering its impact on the architects who rely on it daily. His days were filled with great joy as he coded and authored his beloved software. He treasured his co-workers, clients, and customers. 

David was formerly a firefighter, drill instructor, and fire police officer with the North Canton Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed singing in the Trinity Episcopal Church Choir in Collinsville. He was a proud umpire and coach for his son’s Little League careers and an avid Red Sox Fan. He also volunteered for many events with his children, and always supported his wife in her many ventures.

A private party for his family and closest friends is being held at Métro Bis in Simsbury, the restaurant of one of David’s favorite Chefs. This celebration of David’s life will include Lava Lamps, music played on vinyl records, dancing, and sharing memories.

Religious services and interment for David will be held in Lynchburg, Virginia at a later date to be announced.

In lieu of sending flowers, please make contributions to one of the following organizations; South Park Inn (www.southparkinn.org/donate), and St. Elizabeth House (www.mercyhousingct.org/donate), Hartford, Connecticut.