With deep regret, we announce the passing of Past District Governor David Drislane, a vibrant member of the Rotary Club of Lynnfield, Massachusetts.
Dave was a Veteran, businessman, photographer, man of great faith, and proud Rotarian. A mentor to many, Dave's personality, vigor, and friendship will be greatly missed by generations of Rotarians, family, and friends.
Serving as our District Governor in 1964-1965 made Dave the oldest serving past district governor in the United States of America.
We can all aspire to live as Dave did -- focused on family and community. He will be sorely missed.
Pictured here is Governor Dave (seated at the far left) visiting the Peabody Rotary meeting during the 1964-65 year.
His full obituary follows:
David W. Drislane, who died January 25, 2025, was a faithful man that was devoted to and dearly loved his family, church, and country. Dave served the Town of Lynnfield for decades on numerous Boards and Committees, up to and including as member and past Chairman of the Board of Selectmen.
One of his true passions was the Rotary Club, as he served proudly as a Lynnfield Rotary Club member, Board member, President, District Governor, and was a mentor to many. He actively served with pride until the end.
Dave was a gifted photographer and especially loved wildlife photography.
He life was the was the epitome of the Rotary moto, “Service above Self.”
David was born in Lynn, Massachusetts on March 25, 1931, and was the son of the late William F. and Mary (Smeltzer) Drislane. He was raised and educated in Lynn and was a graduate of Boston College. Dave was a longtime resident of Lynnfield and was the retired President of Essex Bituminous Concrete Corporation of Peabody. He was a communicant of the Our Lady of the Assumption Church of Lynnfield. He also proudly served in the United Sates Army at the time of the Korean Conflict.
Dave was the beloved husband of the late Carol A. (Sheehan) Drislane. He was the loving father of Cynthia Tighe, William Drislane and wife Virginia, Barbara Drislane, David Drislane Jr., and wife Erin, Kelly Fleese and husband Kevin, and the late Suzanne Powell, Linda Annis, and Scott Annis. He was the brother of Dennis Drislane and wife Elena, John Drislane and wife Karen and the late Mary Lou Theriault. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren as well as his godson Christopher Drislane and his dear friend Paula O’Leary.
His Funeral was held on Friday January 31. Arrangements by McDonald Funeral Home. The family requested donations may be made to Ave Maria Parish, 17 Grove Street, Lynnfield, MA 01940.