Obituary of David Kintzler

David Kintzler, 76, of Essex, CT, died peacefully at home on May 10th with his family by his side after complications from a stroke. Born on November 15, 1939, in Cleveland, OH, to the late Lewis and Evelyn Kintzler, he received his BFA in Sculpture and MA in Painting from Kent State University, and a MFA in Sculpture from Syracuse University. He attended the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Skowhegan, ME, and was Apprentice Stone Carver at Johnston Monument Works in Newburgh, NY. He taught sculpture at Syracuse University, Kansas City Art Institute, and at Housatonic Community College (Professor Emeritus) in Bridgeport, CT, where he also taught painting and design for 28 years. David had a lifelong interest in ancient Chinese philosophy, regularly practiced t'ai chi, and was a prolific reader of Taoism and Buddhism. His deep appreciation and respect for nature's flow greatly influenced his main body of work: "The essence of life—both its beauty and its mystery—are the raw materials for my work. The artwork I create symbolizes the convergence of these two eternal truths." His work released the natural potential and organic patterns present in stone or wood, allowing them to radiate in the final piece. This philosophy carried over into his daily life. He will be remembered as a strong, compassionate man whose life was about providing more kindness and unity in the world. In addition to spending time in his studio, he enjoyed daily walks into the village, feeding the birds in his garden and kayaking in the coves of Essex with friends. David was predeceased by the love of his life, Mary. A marker for them both will be placed at the Riverview Cemetery in Essex. He is survived by his devoted daughters and sons-in-law Melissa and Steven Toteda of Palo Alto, CA, and Sasha and Christopher Bath of Cranford, NJ. He was the loving grandfather to Andrew and Isabel Toteda of Palo Alto and Alex and Jason Bath of Cranford. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law Norma and Jim Vanas of North Charleston, SC. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Nature Conservancy. To share a memory of David or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home.