Memorial Service Set for Greenwich Selectman David Theis

A memorial service for Greenwich Selectman David N. Theis, who passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10.

In an announcement Wednesday afternoon, fellow Republican and First Selectman Peter Tesei said, “Details will be forthcoming and posted on the Town of Greenwich website and to all local media outlets.”

The 65-year-old lifelong Cos Cob resident was rushed to Greenwich Hospital after he suffered apparent cardiac arrest while working out at a fitness center in Riverside Tuesday afternoon.

News of Theis’s death rapidly spread throughout town prompting an outpouring of tributes from friends and colleagues on both sides of the political aisle and from the many organizations with which he was involved. The affable Theis, who was an investment advisor with Wells Fargo, was a familiar face around town, attending dozens of events and supporting many causes.

He was a long-time member of the Greenwich Old Timers Club which provides scholarships to student athletes, and volunteered with his long-time partner Kerrin Coyle with Adopt-a-Dog. Theis was a supporter of veterans and was instrumental in organizing the annual flag display on the East Putnam Avenue bridge over the Mianus River on the Cos Cob - Riverside border.

Theis served five years on the Board of Selectmen with Tesei and Democrat Drew Marzullo. Marzullo said Wednesday, “It is a profoundly sad day felt deep well beyond our insular world of local politics. And I say that because Dave was a friend to so many.”

Marzullo added, “He was one of the good guys. I truly believe Greenwich is a better place because of Dave Theis. I will miss him greatly. It has been an honor of a lifetime serving along side this kind, loving and happy gentleman. To Kerrin, Ginny and Nancy (Theis’s sisters) all of Greenwich mourns with you.”

State Rep. Fred Camillo (R-151) posted Tuesday night on his Facebook page, “Today I lost one of the best friends a person could ask for. Dave Theis was one of a kind...selfless, funny, caring, and always there for his friends, wonderful causes, his beloved Cos Cob, and anything to benefit his country.

“I am just grateful that we spent some time together today, that he is at peace now, and that a lifetime of memories will keep that warm smile alive forever in our hearts and in our minds,” Camillo wrote.

The Cos Cob fire Police Patrol who worked with Theis to erect the Mianus River bridge flag display, said, “Theis was a well-respected Cos Cob native who devoted his life to making Greenwich a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with Selectman Theis’ entire family during this very difficult time. His passing, last night, has saddened the CCFPP family and the community at large. Rest in Peace dear friend.”

In a statement, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman said,

“We are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Greenwich Selectman David Theis. Throughout his life, David, a third generation Greenwich resident, gave back to the community of Greenwich through volunteerism and service to the town. He loved his town, he loved his state and his country and always gave back in service to his community.

“He served for over 20 years on the Board of the YMCA of Greenwich and was a leader on the board of the Greenwich Old Timers Association, where he helped provide scholarships to local student athletes. He was elected to the Board of Selectmen in 2009, where he worked to improve the lives of families in Greenwich, specifically honoring returning veterans.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Former Greenwich Republican Town Committee Vice Chair Steve Warzoha said in a Facebook post, “ Dave was a man who always put everyone else first and what was best for our community.”

According to Tesei’s statement, in lieu of flowers donations in Theis’s memory may be made to:

• Greenwich Old Timers’ Athletic Association, P.O. Box 558, Greenwich, CT 06836
• Adopt A Dog, 23 Cox Ave., Armonk, NY 10504

Tesei added, “Please continue to keep David’s family in your prayers. May our loyal public servant and friend be at peace with God. God Bless you David Theis.”

Tesei has ordered that flags be lowered at half-staff in Theis’s honor.

Patch file photo. Credit: Barbara Heins.