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David Anthony D’Alessio of Madison died on March 8 in New Haven at Smilow Cancer Hospital after a brief illness. He was born on March 17, 1964, in Baltimore, Maryland, the son of Raymond and Patricia (Denver) D’Alessio.

He grew up in Madison where he wrestled at Brown Middle School and Daniel Hand High School. He graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a teaching degree so that he could return to Madison to teach and coach the sport he loved. He received his master’s degree and his 092 in administration from Sacred Heart University.

He taught science in Madison for 29 years, and coached wrestling at Daniel Hand High School for the better part of 33 years, where he taught young men and women lessons for life as well as wrestling. He was inducted into the Madison Athletic Hall of Fame as an athlete and as a coach in 2015.

He loved his family, wrestling, cooking, gardening, and fixing things. He also enjoyed the pick through pile at the transfer station, and couldn’t resist a good freebie on the side of the road.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Diane; his devoted children Andy of Clinton and Hailey; and siblings Kim Blackwell (husband Neal) of Pennington, New Jersey, Keith D’Alessio (wife Jennifer) of Cary, North Carolina, and Gina D’Alessio (Tony Grasso) of Durham. He is also survived by three loving nephews, Zachary, Brad, and Patrick D’Alessio; and two nieces, Tristina Blake and Gianna Balsamo.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend a graveside burial at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13 at Mica Hill Cemetery in Durham, and a Memorial Celebration at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 14 at Hubley Hall at The First Congregational Church in downtown Madison.

Lastly, the family would like to sincerely thank the caring healthcare staff at Smilow Cancer Hospital for their exceptional care of Dave during his final weeks. Their gentle care and support are most appreciated. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dave’s memory to Smilow Cancer Hospital, PO Box 1849, New Haven, CT 06508.