David Alander Obituary

David Karl Alander, age 82, of Bartlett, NH, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, after a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of Cheryl L. (Albee) Alander for nearly 48 years, just short of their anniversary on May 14.

Born on June 3, 1942, in Plymouth, MA, to John A. Alander and Edna (Davis) Alander, David grew up in Kingston, MA, and later moved to Bartlett, NH, where he resided for 47 years. After graduating from Silver Lake High School in 1961, David joined the Army, which ultimately led to a lifelong career in the electric utility industry. He retired in 2004 from New Hampshire Electric Coop, where he was known as a loyal and dedicated employee.

David enjoyed a simple life, finding meaning in the small things. He was a quiet man who often found peace in deep thought. He had a great smile and was happiest tinkering in his barn, working around his yard, listening to NPR, or reading the newspaper. A die-hard Red Sox fan, David never missed a home opener, and his love for the team was well known. He had a love of jazz music and would often be found advising others to listen to Dave Brubeck "in the dark." Being of Finnish descent, the word Sisu may best describe him: a quiet strength, perseverance, and resilience that guided him through life.

David is survived by his wife Cheryl, his children Lee Matteson (husband Andrew) of East Providence, RI, Nathan Alander of Bartlett, NH, and Jacob Alander (wife Nina) of Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea. He was a proud papa to Megan Cappola, Mariana Matteson, Jonathon, Calvin, and Finnley Alander. He is also survived by his sister Judith Drew of Dover, NH, brothers-in-law Mark Albee of Wonalancet, NH, and Keith and Natalie Albee of Rochester, NH, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. To honor David's free spirit and love of the outdoors, consider planting a tree in his memory through the Arbor Day Foundation. Contributions may also be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org.

David will surely enter eternity with a map, good music, a glass of red wine, and his incredible trademark smile. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.