David Shugarts, 67, of Newtown, remembered as a kind man with a big heart, a beloved father, husband, and brother, died March 6.

Born in Greensburg, Penn., he attended Swarthmore High School. He still kept in touch with the Class of '65, and was described as the "glue" that held them together. Mr Shugarts received a Bachelor's in English from LeHigh University in 1969 and a Master's in Journalism from Boston University in 1972.

In his early days, his love of exploration brought him to Africa where, while with the Peace Corps, he taught the children of Sierra Leone chemistry and many other lessons.

A meticulous scholar, an author, longtime journalist, and an explorer of the world’s mysteries, he will be missed by the people he touched during his travels. All he asked of his three sons was that they do their best, tell the truth, and do the right thing. They listened.

He took his coffee black, rarely missed a chance to joke around, and loved to debate the day’s events, never holding back his opinion. Through his many pursuits, he became a home scientist, computer guru, and a hundred other titles that endeared him to many.

His passion for seeking the truth in all things launched a 30-year career in journalism at The News-Times in Danbury, where he was a reporter and eventually an editor.

An avid sailor and aviation expert, Mr Shugarts was the founding editor of Aviation Safety Magazine in 1981, and Powerboat Reports magazine in 1988. His meticulous work earned him five regional and national awards from the Aviation/Space Writers Association.

In the latter half of his career, he authored a book, Secrets of the Widow’s Son, and contributed to a dozen more, including Secrets of the Code. He also was interviewed during a documentary that was shown on the History Channel. Whether it was ancient symbols, obscure religious facts, or navigating the waters of Long Island Sound and beyond, Mr Shugarts knew something about almost anything.

A skilled guitarist and song writer, he served as a sound engineer with The Flagpole Radio Café in Newtown, where he met loyal friends and enjoyed the many folk performers who took the stage. He also served as a member of Newtown’s Lyme Disease Task Force that worked toward eliminating the disease from the area.

Mr Shugarts loved his family. In the darkest times, he was the dependable, guiding light whose logical mind they depended upon.

He leaves the love of his life Judith; his sons Andrew, Nicholas, and Jonathan; his brothers William and Steve, and sisters Ann and Janet, with whom he made up "the five"; grandchildren Avery, Ryan, Taylor, and Noa Grace; and many friends. His parents, Jean and William Shugarts, predeceased Mr Shugarts.

His family would like to thank the many friends and family who have reached out since his death, bringing food and kind words. They also thank the nursing staff at Danbury Hospital and Newtown Police Officer Matt Hayes for his compassion.

A celebration of his life is planned for May, in Newtown, at an as-yet-to-be-determined place and date. An interment at Valley Forge Memorial Gardens in King of Prussia, Penn., will follow.

In lieu of flowers, people can send donations to the Newtown Police Building Fund by visiting www.newtownpolice.org.