David Braunstein

David Braunstein of West Nyack, New York, passed away suddenly on March 10, 2026. Born on November 19, 1945, in the Bronx, New York, he was a man whose vibrant presence earned him the description “larger than life” from everyone who knew him, whether as friend, colleague, or acquaintance.

His legacy lives in the smiles that still appear when people recall his passion—his emotional explosions, generous outpourings of love, occasional fiery outbursts, and the quieter moments of focused diligence he brought to organizing his beloved collections of books and videos as a school librarian. A devoted husband to Loida, loving father to Michael Braunstein and Hannah Simonelli and her husband Peter, he was fiercely proud of his grandsons Benjamin, Noah, Jack, and Lucas, whom he affectionately called “Pop-Pop.” He celebrated every one of their achievements with unwavering enthusiasm. He is also survived by his stepson, Kenneth Jimenez Palce, who provided invaluable support during David’s later years of infirmity.

David graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx and went on to earn master’s degrees in Special Education and Library Science. He dedicated more than thirty years to working simultaneously as a teacher and a U.S. Customs inspector. He began his career as Director of the Kaliski School in Riverdale, serving students with special needs, before teaching middle and high school students in the Bronx while spending his summers at Customs, the role he cherished most. At JFK Airport, he became something of a legend among inspectors for his unmatched record of unreported finds, seizures, and resulting fines—stories still shared among veterans.

Even when confined to a wheelchair in his final years, David never complained or gave in to self-pity. He maintained his zest for life, his steadfast positivity, and his delight in life’s absurdities, facing every medical challenge with remarkable grace. All who knew him recognized him as a truly special human being whose like will not soon be seen again.