David W. Cuozzo, 53, of New Haven, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 18 at the Connecticut Hospice, with his family by his side.  David was born in New Haven on August 5, 1964 and was the son of the late Alfonse J. and Loretta A. Pascarella Cuozzo of Northford.  He obtained an Associate Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts from the former Johnson & Wales College (now University), Providence, Rhode Island.  David was a waiter in the New Haven area, having worked at the U.S.S. Chowder Pot III in Branford for more than 20 years; and also worked as a sales associate, selling manager and retail designer for several stores including Filene’s and Macy’s.  He was a writer and contributor to many sources regarding the history of department stores, and had an extensive shopping bag collection.  David volunteered for many years at AIDS Project New Haven (APNH), involved in various committees including the Ryan White Foundation, and the New Haven Mayor’s Task Force on AIDS.  He raised money for APNH by sewing bags and pillows, and regularly stocked the APNH Emergency Food Pantry.  The City of New Haven held a special place in David’s heart, where he often attended and supported local businesses and events.  David was the brother of Gary (Natasha) Cuozzo of Northford, and Cheryl Cuozzo of North Haven.  Beloved uncle of Nicholas Aleksander Cuozzo.  Nephew of William (Margaret) Cuozzo of North Carolina and Judith Ahern of Florida.  Faithful friend to countless others. The family wishes to express their unending gratitude to the wonderful staff of angels at CT Hospice for their incredible love, care and support.

Family and friends are invited to go directly to St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven on Saturday morning, April 14th at 10:00 to attend a Mass of Christian burial and are also invited to attend the committal service immediately following in All Saints Cemetery. David would have appreciated if everyone attending could bring a non-perishable food item for collection in the church vestibule.  There will be no visiting hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to David’s APNH Food Pantry Project on the GoFundMe website, www.gofundme.com/david-apnh-food-pantry-project