David Warren Underhill

Obituary

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved sibling, David Warren Underhill, age 65, of Largo Florida, who left us unexpectedly on May 27th, 2026. He was born on June 1, 1960, in Endicott NY.

David was an exceedingly creative individual with a natural gift in the arts. In his younger years, while in high school David used a lathe in woodshop to make several elegantly simplistic wooden goblets, impressing his instructor. Our father, impressed with David’s talents, purchased a large Italian granite slab and asked David to create a wooden frame to house it. This well engineered heirloom, a 22” x 50” coffee table, is a work of art and a treasured family heirloom.

After graduating from Champlain College in Burlington VT with a degree in business, David worked as a computer programmer before becoming an advertising specialist in radio and magazine media. Because of his engaging personality and innovative approach, he obtained well-known success in the Burlington community.

Later, David’s most impressive talent led him to create his own business as a master Picture Framer, renowned for his visionary approach, artistic eye and meticulous attention to detail. He was truly gifted in design, frame selection and construction, matting, and glazing, all used to protect and enhance works of art. Customer satisfaction was his utmost goal. In 1991, David moved his advertising and framing skills to Tampa, FL

David went on to develop interiors for commercial clients, including Disney. In his most recent career, David was a craftsman for custom boat interiors; his primary focus was custom galleys, each one a boutique design.  He was, rightfully so, quite proud of his impressive designs and workmanship.

David was a bit of daredevil. His adventurous spirit was displayed at an early age, swinging from none-too-sturdy vines and rope swings. As a teen, he did cliff jumping into Lake Champlain (unbeknownst to our mother), and later in life he went sky diving and zip lining. There are probably other daring and bold activities of which we were thankfully, not made aware.

Athletically, David was an avid, agile skier. He thoroughly enjoyed his time on the ski team at Smugglers Notch in Vermont in his younger years and recreational downhill skiing throughout his life. He recently took up square dancing.

Driven by a genuine desire to help others, David demonstrated deep community care and selflessness, as evidenced in part by his creation of an AA chapter to fill a critical gap and support residents in need. He was also involved with United Way of Chittenden County in Vermont and Art for Life, Chrysalis House, Imago, and Dunedin Chamber of Commerce.

He made a point to dedicate his Sunday’s to visiting Mom in her later years (we pegged him as her favorite) and when family visited from out of town, we were a number one priority.  Above all else, David valued and cherished his time with family. His genuine warmth and generous spirit will be forever missed.

David is survived by siblings – Chuck [Mary Z] Underhill, Brad [Donna] Underhill, Marcia [Warren] Spinner, and John [Karen] Underhill. He is also survived by Sisters-in-law – Mary Underhill, Julie Underhill and Kim Underhill and by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

David was predeceased in death by his parents Mary-Louise and John Arthur Underhill and his brother Douglas Underhill [Kim].

In lieu of flowers – donations may be sent to: Lake Seminole Presbyterian Church, 8505 113th Street, Seminole, FL 33772