David T. Crosta, also known as "Dave the Brave," age 52, passed away on January 10, 2026, at Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune, NJ. He was the beloved son of Linda Lakatosh and Thomas Crosta, cherished brother of Dina Crosta, brother-in-law to Christopher Bayer, and proud uncle to Gabriel Bayer, age 10.
David spent the first part of his life at home with his family in Ocean County, where he was supported by the ARC of Ocean County and played basketball with the Special Olympics. He went to summer camp, rode his bike, bowled with friends and always kept his boom box nearby - turning the dial, choosing the station, looking for something to enjoy or share.
In his mid-twenties, he moved into the care of the ARC of Hunterdon County, eventually making his home at Burdock Group Home in Three Bridges, NJ where he continued to be a part of a wide network of community including serving local residents receiving Meals on Wheels.
He navigated his whole life with a loving, energetic spirit, infectious smile, and lots of full-body laughs. David had a deep love for those in his care community, and he shared a special bond with many—especially his Burdock staff, Brima and Mark, and the roommates who shared his home.
His love for his staff and attending friends of the ARC Day Program was evident when he would greet them with his big smile and a "Good Morning". Anyone that knew him also knew that he loved to ask "What time is it?" and let you know when football or baseball teams were going to be playing.
David had a true love for music, TV and movies. Anytime he heard music he would excitedly identify the artist and enthusiastically sing along inviting others to take part through his joy. His favorite genre was country music, with Luke Bryan being a top favorite. However, you could hear him sing along to the music of the Beatles, the Four Seasons, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and many more.
David was especially fond of the "Andy Griffith Show" with Opie being one of his favorite characters. Family and friends could always find him watching episode after episode on repeat. He also loved all of the Back to the Future movies and would excitedly alert everyone when any of them were on.
Though we mourn the deep absence of his daily presence, David's gifts live on through the NJ Sharing Network, where his organ donations have brought life to others. His spirit also remains wherever joy is found in music, repetition, and the kindness of those who meet each other with care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David Crosta's memory may be made to the ARC of Hunterdon, Shelbourne at Hunterdon, 53 Frontage Road, Suite 150, Hampton, NJ 08827 or by clicking here.
A Celebration of Life will be held for David on Saturday, March 7th, 2026 from 12:00 - 3:00pm at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St, Flemington NJ 08822. A service to celebrate David’s life filled with eulogies, remembrances, and stories will commence at 1:00 pm. Lite refreshments, food and desserts will be provided throughout.
For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.
Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home
Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home
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