David Harold Finch, 77, a resident of Apex, NC, passed away on Tuesday, July 30th. His life was marked by a deep commitment to his family, a pioneering spirit in his professional endeavors, and a genuine warmth that touched everyone he met. David’s enduring legacy is one of innovation, a love for life’s adventures, and an unwavering dedication to those he held dear.
Born in Raleigh, NC, to Eva Dean Todd Finch and Harold Gilbert Finch, David displayed leadership qualities from a young age. He graduated from William G Enloe High School in 1966, where he was affectionately known as “Mr Enloe,” a testament to his popularity and influence. His dedication to hard work and community was recognized by the “Raleigh Times,” which highlighted him as “Enloe’s own version of the All-American kid.” During his senior year, David served as Class President and was the driving force behind the establishment of the Raleigh Youth Council, serving as its founding President. His leadership journey continued at Atlantic Christian College (ACC) in Wilson, NC, where he majored in business. He further engaged in student government as freshman Class President, was an active member of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, and held the position of IFC President in 1970. After college, he joined his father’s electrical contracting business in Raleigh. David married Susan Pope in 1972, and together they raised four children in Raleigh, maintaining lifelong friendships forged during his school years. His friends consistently described him as “The Good Guy Extraordinaire,” known for his willingness to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. Beyond his professional and social commitments, David found joy in creative storytelling, fishing, cherished family time at Harkers Island, NC, and even pursued a passion for piloting small aircraft. Throughout his career, David founded several successful electrical engineering and contracting businesses, including Finelco, Lighting Energy Saving Systems (LESS) Associates, and Optilight, Inc.
Relocating to New Jersey in the early 1990s, David established new roots and married Peggy McNulty in 1995. His innovative mind led him to secure several patents for lighting fixtures he developed in his own backyard. His expertise gained recognition, leading him to serve on the Green Lights Committee of the EPA. This work eventually led to a collaboration with Public Service Electric and Gas Co., a New Jersey utility, to establish a joint venture with his company, LESS Associates. This partnership focused on implementing high-efficiency lighting systems for numerous large warehouses, primarily across the Northeast. David and Peggy also established a small horse farm, where they were known for hosting lively gatherings and engaging in various outdoor sports. An enthusiast of BMWs, David also shared his knowledge as a student driving instructor and participated in racing with his wife. He further demonstrated his community involvement by serving as the President of the NJ BMW Club Chapter.
In 2020, David and Peggy returned to North Carolina, settling in Apex to be closer to family. Shortly after their move, David was diagnosed with cancer. His courageous battle and treatments at Duke Hospital granted him precious additional time with his loved ones, time he deeply cherished until the cancer’s return. David will forever be remembered for his profound thoughtfulness and his innate desire to assist others. His zest for life, deep love for his friends and family, and his unique ability to make every moment interesting will be profoundly missed. His quiet wit and one-liners will live on in the memories of those who knew him.
David is survived by his devoted mother, Eva Dean Todd Finch, his wife of 29 years, Peggy McNulty Finch, and his sisters, Rosemary Mims and Patricia Platania. He also leaves behind his four cherished children: Robert Todd Finch and wife, Jennifer; Mary Hunter Finch Koster and husband, Will; Caroline Finch Kimball and husband, Brandon; and Virginia Ruth Finch Gero and husband, Chris. His legacy extends to his 11 grandchildren: Chase and McColl Finch; Della Ruth, Jackson, and Evie Koster; Zoey and Hurst Kimball; and Jack, Mila, Finn, and Charlotte Gero. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Gilbert Finch.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 18th, at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 12:30 PM at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson, NC.
A celebration of life is scheduled for Sunday, September 1st, at 4:00 PM at the Rock-N-Roll Farm, 170 Asbury-Bloomsbury Road, Asbury, NJ 08802.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Duke Cancer Institute at www.dukecancerinstitute.org or to English Springer Rescue America at www.springerrescue.org.
Condolences can be shared with the family through Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.
