David S. Winson ... ham radio operator

David S. Winson, 70, of Rochester died on June 26 after a long illness.

Born in Melrose, Mass., he was the son of Donald W. and Dorothy (Gates) Winson. He attended Wakefield and Lynnfield schools and served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He was retired from USNH.

A man of many passions, he could fix almost anything. He especially loved being on the water, motorcycles and was a ham radio operator. He was an avid computer geek and a fierce patriot who loved his country. You could always count on him for lively political conversations. His family was important to him and he had a unique gift of encouraging them. Despite his many health challenges he lived life to the fullest and with purpose. He impacted many lives with his compassion, caring and sense of humor. He cherished his church family and many friends, especially friends of Bill W.

He is survived by his bride of 28 years, the love of his life, Barbara (Gagne) Winson, his son, Christopher D. Winson, Sr., his daughters Jodi Burke of Danvers, MA and Kori McKenzie of Nashua, stepdaughters Kerry (John) Scala of Rochester and Laurie (John) McCollum of Pembroke, MA. Also a sister and brother-in-law, Martha and Phillips Moore. He leaves behind eight grandchildren, CJ, Lauren and Brian Winson, Alison McKenzie, Dominic Scala, Piper, Daniel and Talia McCollum. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Winson and granddaughter Ashley Scala.