Obituary of David R. Zugale
David R. Zugale, (Dave) a dedicated husband and father, talented architect and creative spirit, of Boonton, NJ, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the age of 84 after a valiant battle with cancer.
Born in March 1941, in Orange, NJ, David attended Columbian Middle School and Clifford Scott High School in East Orange. By all accounts, both his family and schooling nurtured his keen interest in music, art, and architecture. Studying at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY, his passion for architecture led to a long and distinguished career. Dave made significant contributions to the firms of Fredric Rosen, Architect; Ronald Schmidt and Associates; and the Grad Partnership; followed by many years in private practice. His attention to detail was evident whether the project was a college building, an airport terminal, home renovations or architectural renderings in many mediums.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dave’s creativity extended into many aspects of his life. He had a deep appreciation for all things music - from rock and roll to Rachmaninoff. Dave listened intently, played percussion, piano, and composed rousing marches! His next painting (oil and watercolor) was often on his mind, waiting for time and inspiration to begin. Dave found satisfaction in making and fixing things, often solving household problems as if they were engrossing puzzles. An interest in birds at an early age may have been his motivation for the pursuit of his private pilot’s license.
Faith and community played an important role in Dave’s early life. Growing up, he and his family were active members of Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church in East Orange, where they developed a strong sense of community. Later, Dave, Andrea and the boys found a similar sense of community at the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. He served as Board president and in many other ways was a vital part of the community.
David is survived by his devoted wife, Andrea (Lerman); his loving sons, Jeffrey Zugale, Daniel Zugale (Lauren), and Matthew Zugale (Liz Willson); and six grandchildren whose unique gifts and talents are already evident.
Grateful for our caring family members, sisters’-in-law Sara Gold and Alceste Gallo; brother-in-law Kenneth G. Rapp; and nephew Steven J. Rapp and family and our many supportive friends.
David was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Gladys (Schoen) Zugale, as well as his sister, Marion M. Rapp.
A gathering of friends and family will take place at the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at a later date.
Services were arranged through Codey & Mackey Funeral Home of Boonton. To share condolences or memories with the family, please visit CodeyMackeyFH.com.
