David M. Sarao

David (Dave) M. Sarao, 42, of Syracuse, UT, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Thursday, August 29th, 2024. His sudden and untimely passing has left his family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken. Born on October 2, 1981, in Methuen, MA, Dave was the father of Vincent (Vinny) Sarao, the son of Ronald and the late Betty Sarao, the brother of Lynne and Daniel Sarao, uncle of Luca and Marianna Sarao, and partner of Jessica Walsh.

Dave touched countless lives during his too-short time with us, bringing joy and happiness to everyone he met. Always a vibrant personality, he had a special gift for making people laugh, smile and feel good about themselves. Whether through his humor or his calming presence, Dave always knew just how to lift the spirits of those around him. Dave was a kindred spirit who had an incredible way of making everyone feel understood, no matter the situation. Even from an early age, he could command a room with his vibrant personality and warm smile. He knew when to be serious but was always quick to lighten the mood when needed. Dave made friends effortlessly and won over people just as fast. His presence was larger than life, and he was truly an incredible person who people loved being around.

He was committed to his family and loved ones, his son, his parents, his siblings, his niece and nephew, and his girlfriend Jessica. Dave’s world revolved around his family, especially his beloved son, Vinny, whom he often said he would not trade for anything in the world. He cherished every moment they spent together, always looking forward to their time, and showered Vinny with both love and toys. Although he lived away from his immediate family much of his life, Dave was always an amazing son and a remarkable brother. Whether he was cooking chef-level meals for his family, making weekly check-in calls to his mom and dad, texting for hours about random topics, or being a supportive best friend to his siblings, Dave was always present. Even from afar, he was always ready to lend an ear, offer help, and share his love with those closest to him. Though their time together was brief, Dave was deeply in love with his girlfriend, Jess. He showed his affection in countless ways, from weekly bouquets of sunflowers, a special symbol in their relationship, to always opening her car door or standing in long lines at Disney or Legoland. Dave was fully devoted to making her happy and loved her with all his heart.

Dave was also deeply committed to his work family at SSA (and previously Sodexo), where he passionately devoted much of his life to a career he loved. His colleagues frequently praised his incredible talent and dedication. Dave had a positive and influential impact on everyone he met, becoming something of a legend at SSA and Canobie Lake Park, earning the respect and admiration of all who worked alongside him. His picture graces SSA offices throughout the country as a humorous reminder that “Dave Sarao is always watching over you.” And now he truly is watching over all of us, family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

Dave was a diehard fan of the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots and Red Sox (you get the idea). From attending games at Fenway Park, to watching hockey games with Vinny, to the almost daily banter with his brother during each and every one of the 82 Bruins games a season, Dave truly loved Boston sports, especially when they were experienced with friends and family. Dave also had a connection with nature. Whether he was hiking at Zion National Park, exploring Acadia National Park, or skiing mountains across the US, he enjoyed being in the great outdoors, especially with friends and family. Connecting to history was also something he enjoyed. Dave was fascinated with his family history, the history of Italy and early Italian Americans. He also had a deep love for reading, learning, and engaging in long, thoughtful discussions on any topic. Whether it was politics, foreign affairs, religion, the afterlife, or anything in between, he was always eager to expand his knowledge and perspectives. His ability to effortlessly dive into a wide range of subjects and converse with insight and curiosity was truly remarkable.

Dave is survived by his beloved son, Vinny Sarao of Salt Lake City, UT; his father, Ronald Sarao of Methuen, MA; his sister Lynne Sarao of Woburn, MA, and his brother Daniel and his wife Paulina, and his treasured niece and nephew Luca and Marianna Sarao of Cape Coral, FL, his girlfriend Jessica Walsh of Monterey, CA, and his beloved dog (and bud) Dylan. He will be truly and forever missed by all. But we know that Dave is and always will be watching over us. And we also take ease in knowing that he is now with his loving mother, Betty Sarao, who he missed so dearly after her passing in March of 2024.

Relatives, friends, and colleagues are respectfully invited to say goodbye to Dave on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, from 6-8 PM at 869 South 2000 West, Syracuse, UT. A viewing will take place at Lindquist’s Syracuse Mortuary at 6 PM – 8 PM. Dave had strong feelings about supporting causes that he cared about. 

The family kindly requests that those wishing to express sympathy consider making a donation in lieu of flowers to the organizations that Dave supported, such as the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (aza.org), the Nature Conservancy (nature.org) or their preferred charity in Dave’s honor. Your generosity will continue Dave’s passions and caring nature in his name.

Services will be lived-streamed and available the day of service by scrolling to the bottom of David's obituary page, where condolences may also be shared.

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