David L. Zuretti, 72, of Northborough

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Obit David L. ZurettiNorthborough/Wellesley – David L. Zuretti, 72, of Northborough, formerly of Wellesley, died Wednesday, April 16, 2014 after a valiant battle with ALS.

David, a humble, gracious, and eloquent man who honored his family and friends, was raised a farmer's son in Westborough. He became the president of his high school class and captain of the football team. Earning a BS degree from Bates College in Maine, he became an educator for the Natick School Department, teaching middle school mathematics and science.

Further earning two masters degrees and countless graduate credits, it soon became evident that David was not ordinary. His standards of excellence were reflected not only in the classroom, but also on professional committees where he strived for innovation in curriculum, mathematics competitions, union rights, and participation in international student exchange. A self-taught interior designer, stimulated by his good friend Larry, who was an art teacher, David had an insatiable interest in and appreciation for art, architecture, design, culture, music, theatre, antiques, and renovation. He was intrigued by the subtleties of color and lighting, especially with wallpaper and fabrics. He spent hours perusing shops, galleries, and flea markets from Newport to Cape Cod to Maine and treasured his moments with friends at museums, live theatre, symphony concerts and exploring Europe.

During his teaching career, David began experimenting with interior design and innovation and, once retired, happily gave himself creative license with carpenter friend Sean to set upon what would be his crowning achievement, the stunning renovation of the Stanford House, 323 Washington St. in Wellesley, the current home of the Wellesley Historical Society.

David was deeply loved, admired and respected for his integrity, his vision, his passion for design, his deep loyalty and incredible talents. A man of humor and great curiosity, he was enchanted by language and was unheralded in his ability to artfully wrap words around ideas. “Magnificent!” was his favorite word and that he was.

David leaves his sisters, Janet Nicalek and her husband Ken of Northborough, with whom he resided, Priscilla (Penny) Wightman and her husband David of Maryland, N.Y., and Madelyn Good of Hampton, N.H.; his best friend, Lawrence Branagan;? his uncle, Carl Sprague of Winchester, Va.; and his aunt, Virginia Sprague of Jupiter, Fla. He leaves many deeply cherished friends, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

A sports enthusiast, he was a dedicated Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan who loved sailing and the Cape. A kind and generous gentleman, memories of his quick wit and caring nature will be cherished by his family and friends.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, April 19, from 2 – 5 p.m., in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St. (Route 20), Northborough. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VNA Care Network & Hospice, Development Office, 199 Rosewood Dr., Suite 180, Danvers, MA 01923; the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter,? 315 Norwood Park South, Norwood, MA 02062; or Compassionate Care ALS, PO Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574.

To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit www.haysfuneralhome.com.

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