Sturbridge: David M. Barnicle, 81, of Ladd Rd., passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, Oct 26th, in Saint Vincent Hospital, after an illness.

He leaves his beloved wife of 58 years, Patricia M. (Ford) Barnicle; his three daughters, Anne-Marie Adamson and her husband David of Freedom, ME, Kristina Ward and her husband Dana of Dorchester, NH and Laura McHugh and her husband Andrew of Sturbridge; his eight grandchildren, Charles Frey, Mary Kathryn Bennett, Emma Pender, Suzanna Moses, Nicholas Moses, Grace McHugh, Eamon McHugh and Quinn McHugh and many great grandchildren.

David was born in Fitchburg, MA and was predeceased by his parents, Walter Barnicle and Lillian (Lamoureux) Upfield and his step-father, Murry Upfield.  David graduated with a Master's Degree in Science from Framingham State University and became a Biology teacher at Natick High School. During this time he coached collegiate soccer at both Holy Cross and Babson College. David settled with his family in Sturbridge in 1980 to start a job in the sales department at United Lens Co. He owned and operated DMB Technical Optics Inc. in Sturbridge for over 20 years prior to retiring several years ago.

Throughout his life, David was an environmental activist.  He served on the Sturbridge Conservation Commission for 25 years, helped create and was the Chairperson of Friends of Sturbridge Trails (FroST).  David loved shell fishing on Martha's Vineyard where he and his wife owned a home for 20 years.  He could often be seen giving an impromptu lecture on the beach to a group of children.  He was an avid soccer fan, and spent many hours cheering on Manchester City.  David loved big family gatherings, gardening, reading, playing the bass and listening to foot stomping music- especially Celtic.

Calling hours for David will be held on Thursday, Nov. 3rd, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge.

Graveside Services and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to: The Sturbridge Trails (Trails Gift Account) Town of Sturbridge, ATTN:  Finance Department, 308 Main Street, Sturbridge, MA  01566.