David J. Zapka

David J. Zapka, 81, of Hatfield passed away peacefully on Monday morning at Cooley Dickinson Hospital after a brief illness. David was born in Northampton to the late John and Anna (Duga) Zapka. He was raised in Hatfield, attending local schools and graduated from Smith Vocational & Agricultural High school majoring in autobody. After graduation he enlisted in the Massachusetts National Guard, serving with the 104th infantry and honorably discharged in 1971 and returned home. He was always willing to share many stories from his days in the Guards which often left his listeners laughing. He joined Local 357 iron worker union and was employed by Miscellaneous Metals in Connecticut. He then ventured out to Ohio with his brother Marty to attend Hobart Welding School. Upon his return he opened Arrow Welding and Fabrication in Hatfield and retired in 1992. David enjoyed fishing and car shows. David met the love of his life Jane and were married 56 years. During the early years of marriage, they soon became world travelers with visiting many destinations overseas. Over the years David and Jane had a soft spot for rescue dogs, treating each and every one like a valuable family member. He leaves his beloved wife, Jane (Gronostalski) Zapka. His dear brother, Martin and his wife Karen Zapka of Whately, His nephews Jon (Lori) Zapka of Goshen, and Nathan (Elin) Zapka of Whately, his niece Amanda (Todd) Silverman of Glastonbury, Ct, his sister in laws; Mary Ann Marko and her husband David of Clinton, NY., Rosalie Delsie and her husband Richard of Hooksett, NH, Kathryn Jeffrey of Umatilla, FLA., Carol Gronostalski of North Attleboro and several nieces and nephews. David was predeceased by his father and mother, his brother Alan Zapka, his sister-in-law Helen Zapka, his nephew Robert Zapka and his brother-in-law Edward Gronostalski. The family will receive friends on Friday, January 2, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. at AHEARN FUNERAL HOME, 783 Bridge Rd., Northampton with a Service of Remembrance to follow at Ahearn Funeral Home at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor, Jack Cooper, officiant. Burial will be in the spring in Main Street Cemetery in Hatfield. Donations in David’s memory may be made to Poodle Rescue and Cooley Dickinson Hospital.