David R Dumaine

Punta Gorda, FL- David Richard Dumaine, 58, formerly of Jacksonville, VT, died Wednesday, January 25, surrounded by loved ones at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
Dave was born on April 14,1964, in Fall River, MA, the son of Yvette Dumaine Dalpe and the late Richard Dumaine. Stepson to Roger Dalpe. Brother to Michelle Nicolay, Suzanne Deschenes, and the late Denise Camara. Former husband to Terrie Ridlon. Father to Rose Dumaine, Sarah Yule, David Dumaine, and stepfather to Christine Santos. Grandfather to Rebecca and Bradley.
Dave graduated from Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River, MA, before studying at Johnson & Wales University culinary program. He spent several years as head chef to some of the most prestigious restaurants. Dave found his true passion in life after volunteering at La Salette Shrine in Attleboro, MA. While at La Salette, he took over a youth ministry program, and because of his gift for working with the young, he was sent to study religion at the University of Massachusetts in Boston and than continued his studies at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, from which he earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and a master’s in religious education. In 1992 he took his perpetual vows as Brother Dave and became director of youth retreats along with assistant director of the shrine.
In 2004, he and Terrie had the opportunity to purchase the Mello’s Retreat Center in Jacksonville, where he continued educating the young and old on the teachings of Christ. In 2007 tragedy hit, burning the retreat center to the ground. Many of his students and friends came to his side to help rebuild; his dream was fulfilled with the addition of the chapel where many gathered to celebrate and pray. He renamed the retreat center “The Dumaine House.”
Dave touched so many lives with his huge smile, infectious laugh, love of music, and compassion for all. He gave an agape love, expecting nothing in return.
Friends and family celebrated his life at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda on Tuesday, January 31. A service will also be offered in New England at a later date.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, Dave has asked that donations be sent to the American Heart Association @ www.heart.org.