David S. Actman

David Actman, on August 31st, 2024. Loving son of Allen and Diane (nee Lobel) Actman; adoring brother to Laurie (Chris Johnson) Actman. Dear uncle of Ella, Crosby and Darcy; nephew of Judy Furjanic, Margie Actman and Carol Lobel. David’s zest for life and big smile will be dearly missed by his family and friends. 

Despite being given only three months to live at birth, David exceeded all his family’s expectations and fulfilled their dream of living a full and independent life. He loved playing and watching sports, going to dances and the theatre with friends, spending holidays with his extended family and was a notable presence on the dance floor at many events including weddings and the mitzvahs of his nieces and nephew. In particular, he had a passion for baseball, especially the Chicago Cubs, and as a secondary option, the Philadelphia Phillies. He enjoyed attending many games every summer with his friends and family.  His family was so proud when in 1995 David won the Vicki and Jack Farber award from the Association of Development Disabilities, which is awarded to an individual who has achieved his or her personal goals in an outstanding manner. 

After graduating from Elwyn at the age of 21, David held various food service jobs at local universities including Temple and most recently at Villanova where he worked for the past decade. His managers at Villanova were wonderfully supportive and David loved being around the students and rooting for the Villanova sports teams. Having a job and earning a paycheck were very important for David’s sense of purpose and he was supported by many dedicated county-employed job coaches over the years.

Most importantly David loved being part of JCHAI, a non-profit organization co-founded by his parents in 1987 to inspire and empower adults with developmental differences and disabilities to imagine and fulfill their life aspirations and to be valued contributors to the community. JCHAI became his second family and the incredible staff and other residents helped him live as independently and happily as possible. David’s fun personality and gentle spirit will be missed by everyone that knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to graveside services on Friday, September 6th, 2024 at 2:00pm at Roosevelt Memorial Park. Shiva will be observed following services at the home of Laurie Actman and Chris Johnson. Contributions in his memory may be made to JCHAI, www.jchai.org.