David Maloney,67

David John Maloney, 67, husband, dad, brother, uncle, friend, died Sunday, January 23rd, 2022, at his home in Clarksburg, after a period of declining health. His wife Linda and faithful dog Odie were by his side.

Dave was born in Greenfield, Massachusetts, to Marion (Sullivan) and John O. Maloney. He enjoyed remembering his adventures in baseball and football as a youth, but his heart was always in music. He played drums for the GHS marching band and also played the trombone, trumpet & tuba. Love of music led to his career in music education. He graduated from Greenfield High School, Holyoke Community College, and Westfield State, receiving his teaching degree. He always remembered traveling to Europe as part of the HCC Brass Quintet, performing in multiple countries. He continued his studies at the Berklee School of Music. He married Linda LaBonte in November of 1997, and became stepdad to two wonderful girls, Stephanie and Sarah.

Dave’s teaching took him to Frontier, Mohawk & Wilmington, Vermont. He originated the Clarksburg Youth Band, and was the Music Director at Franklin County Technical School for over 20 years, retiring in 2017.

A fierce advocate for his students, he believed each student had the ability to make music and find their own success. He conceived and built the award winning FCTS Renegades drumline that represented FCTS at parades and events throughout Western Massachusetts. The strong and unique sound of the drumline could be heard in the distance long before they could be seen. He wrote all the cadences and taught many students who had no experience how to play so they could participate. One year, he promised the members of the drumline that if they came in first at the Franklin County Fair parade band competition, he would dye his famously white hair bright pink, and kept that promise after the drummers secured their blue ribbon. He also enjoyed working the soundboard for multiple FCTS Theater productions.

Dave’s wit was famous within the family, with “Daveisms” for every occasion, including confirmations and family funerals. Sitting next to Dave at these events or being a godson being confirmed with Dave at their side could be a test of one’s ability to keep a straight face. He was kind, caring and loved nothing more than laughter with family and good friends. Sitting outside at his house in the warm sun with the view of Mount Greylock in the distance and a happy dog at his feet while chatting with someone he cared about was a perfect day.

Dave leaves his wife Linda LaBonte Maloney of Clarksburg, two step daughters, Stephanie LaBonte and partner Jamie Sampson and their daughter Althea of North Adams, and Sarah Simpson and her husband Rick Simpson of Blandford; brother Mark Maloney and wife Martha of Greenfield and nephews John, Aengus, and Ruari; sister Karen Hoffheimer of Oveido, Florida, nieces Meagan and husband Michael Whitcomb, and Kathleen Hoffheimer, and niece Erin Maloney of Phoenix AZ, as well as many cousins, extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Marion and John Maloney, and his brother Kevin Maloney.

The family would like to thank Kindred at Home for their wonderful care of Dave. In memory of Dave, donations may be made to the Fender Music Foundation (www.fenderplayfoundation.org), dedicated to increasing access to music education through innovative & sustainable programs that put instruments & learning tools directly into the hands of students & teachers. In Dave’s honor, spend some time with a young person, and share your favorite music with them.

A celebration of David Maloney life will take place Friday, January 28, 2022 at 1p.m. at the Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home, West Chapels, 521 West Main St. North Adams, MA. Calling Hours at the Funeral Home are Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Burial will be private.To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.