- Welcome to Daley Life Celebration Studio, where we Celebrate the Color of Life.
David Zelaney
Great individuals are not only popular themselves, but they give popularity to whomever they touch. To say David was a people person is an understatement. During his days at Delran High School he was elected class president, prom king and during the homecoming celebrations he was able to amass an army to help build floats and prepare sketches. Also during high school he swam for Delran High School, Riverdel and Jersey Wahoos. No surprise then, that during his college days at Montclair State University he was president of his fraternity and homecoming king. It was never about the accolades though, he just loved being around people and making new friends. His travels took him to London, Mexico, Paris, NYC, Cayman Islands, Spain and Rome, but anyplace with a large population and a fun atmosphere was okay in his book. Although David was living in Maplewood he never lost his Delran roots, especially when it came to cheering for the Eagles. He had a passion for food since childhood and was owner of New World Catering and Food Boutique in Maplewood. When David catered an event he did more than serve a meal, he created a whole new environment. rn David is survived by his mother, Verna Zelaney of Delran, his father, Louis Zelaney of Marlton, his sister, Karen Zelaney of Palmyra as well as by many aunts, uncles and cousins. rn Come celebrate David’s 47 wonderful years (Sept. 20, 1965-Jan. 29, 2013) Saturday from 8:30-10 AM at the Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 AM at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church (St. Peter’s Site), Riverside. Interment private. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.rn
14 Comments
My deepest sympathies for your loss. — SC
David will always be a fond memory of a wonderful childhood friend. Please accept my sincere condolences. May god bless his family.rnEdie Cobleigh Santosrnrn
I will never forget Dave and all the wonderful memories I have growing up and being in so many of the same classes with him going all the way back to Millbridge. He was a terrific person and was always laughing. I was glad to be able to get together with him and our classmates a few years ago at Ott’s. God bless him and his family from all the Bowker’s.
RIP David. You were a great student and a born leader.
David was a good and special friend who will be greatly missed. Our sincerest condolences to the Zelaney & Luigi.
Dave was such a wonderful person to be around. I I traveled with Dave on one of his many trips to Rome and will never forget his joy and zest for life. I am grateful for his friendship and for the time we spent together. Much sympathy for such a great loss…nNoreen & John Surma
Dave and I had many great times in college. He was always fun to be around and it showed in the many lives he touched. I will always remember those days in college with Dave. May you be with Angels Dave….God bless.
I met Dave during our college years at Montclair State. Many of my fondest memories of college include Dave. With his happy-go-lucky personality, infectious laughter, and positive outlook on life, it was hard not to want to be his friend. I will treasure those memories of Dave and hold them close to my heart. I feel truly blessed to have known such a wonderful human being. May you rest in peace, Dave. Surely, we will see each other again someday. God Bless you and your family…
You were loved by so many and will be missed by many more. Your smile and laugh were one of a kind
Dave and I swam together @ Wahoos, and when the JW crew practiced @ Riverdel for long course, nach Z was there. I remember vividly his smile and ebullience! My deepest condolences to family and friends.
Nobody, and I mean nobody, could entertain me and make me laugh like David Z. I’ve been blessed to know his family for over 30 years, and they’ve always been wonderful to me – my “adopted family”. I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I’ll never see him again (well, until we meet again someday). My prayers & sincere condolences to the entire Zelaney family and all of David’s friends. The earth has lost a shining star, but heaven has placed that star right next to those who went before him. I’ll bet he’s arguing with Walt & Nanny right now over whether paprika has any flavor(inside joke). I’ll remember all the good times, because I honestly don’t remember ever having a bad time when David Z. was in the house. I feel very blessed to have known you, David. <3
I was very fortunate that I spent many summers with David at Riverdel and then at Delran High. We swam together for almost 13 years. David was always kind and considerate of others. He was one the most talented swimmers I have ever known.rnHe was a leader in high school who could always pull a diverse group together to complete a task. The DHS class of 1984 never lost a spirit week competition EVER due to Davids drive. He made everyone always feel welcomed and never had anything but kind words to say about people.rnI hadnt spoken to David in a long time and I am sad to hear of his passing. To the Zelaney family I offer my thoughts and prayers, but know that I am better person for knowing your son and brother.rnrnPatrick Sheehan rnrnrnrn rn
Dave, we had a blast as college roommates back in the mid-80s, and I can still hear many of the funny quips you used to utter. Even when you were in a lousy mood you couldn’t keep the smile off your face for very long, and eventually you’d just laugh it off. And laugh is what you did…always getting others to laugh too. I can’t think of anyone I knew who met you and didn’t have great things to say about you. I’m sure you’re partying and dancing up in Heaven right now (at a fully-catered event, no less). It was a pleasure knowing you and the impression you made on my coming of age was indelible. –Chuck Carlino