David Andrew Drinkwater

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, David Andrew Drinkwater passed away peacefully after a long battle with end-stage liver disease. Though his family's hearts are heavy with grief, they take comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended and that the music, laughter, and love he brought into this world will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. David was 67 years old.

Born on December 31, 1958, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, David was the son of the late John F. Drinkwater and Eva Mary (O'Brien) Drinkwater.

David was known for his quick wit, unforgettable sense of humor, deep love for animals and the natural world around him, and remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He could walk into a room of strangers and leave with friends. Whether through a story, a joke, a conversation, or simply his presence, he had a gift for bringing smiles to those around him.

Throughout his life, David built a respected career within the live entertainment industry as an audio engineer and stage technician with IATSE Local 500, which was not only a union but also a community and brotherhood that became family to him over many decades. He worked at venues throughout South Florida, including what is now the iThink Financial Amphitheatre and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. David also owned and operated Palm Beach Audio and Video, combining his technical expertise with his lifelong passion for sound and production.

Music was one of the great loves of David's life. He loved playing guitar and bass, experimenting with instruments, mixing sound for concerts, working on sets for various productions, and sharing music with others whenever possible. Music could move him to tears, inspire deep reflection, or simply bring joy to an ordinary day. Beyond music, David found happiness and joy in human connection, making others laugh until they cried, collecting various quirky gadgets and gizmos, good food, sunshine, the beauty of the natural world, and the ocean.

In recent years, David's spiritual beliefs have evolved beyond the traditions of his upbringing, embracing a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of life, love, nature, and all living things. He approached life with curiosity, compassion, and a belief that even in difficult times there was beauty to be found and hope worth holding onto.

Above all else, David loved his family. He is survived by his daughters, Dana Lorraine Drinkwater and Hope Elizabeth Drinkwater; his brothers, Robert F. Drinkwater and Jack Drinkwater; his lifelong friend and chosen brother, William Contois; his brother Robert's wife, Randi Drinkwater, and their children, Alli Drinkwater and David Drinkwater; his late sister Theresa's husband, Chad Davis, and their daughters, Isabel Davis and Sophie Davis; and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and fellow members of the live entertainment community whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John F. Drinkwater and Eva Mary (O'Brien) Drinkwater; his sister, Theresa (Drinkwater) Davis; and his beloved daughter, Caroline Rose Drinkwater.

A celebration of David's life will be announced at a later date.

David's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare professionals, family members, friends, and loved ones who offered support, compassion, and kindness throughout his final journey.

May those who knew and loved David carry forward the message he held close to his heart: "It's all about love for one another. Don't ever let that go."