David Joseph Brooman

David Joseph Brooman, 69, of Manasquan, New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2026. A longtime resident of Manasquan, he was an accomplished attorney known for his quiet strength, integrity, and the central place his family held in his life.

Born in Rochelle Park, New Jersey, David moved to Manasquan as a child. He attended St. Denis Elementary School and graduated from Manasquan High School before earning his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University and his Juris Doctor from Villanova University School of Law. His strong work ethic was evident early on, as he worked alongside his parents at their Manasquan restaurant, The Surf & Sand. After law school, he built a distinguished career with prominent firms including Cohen Shapiro and Drinker Biddle & Reath, before spending the final twelve years at High Swartz, LLC, where he was deeply respected by colleagues. He took particular pride in his advocacy for children, offering them a strong and steady voice.

Thoughtful and steadfast, David was a guiding presence to many, especially his family. He found joy in gardening, traveling, sports, and above all, golf. Yet his greatest happiness came from spending long days at the beach with his loved ones, particularly his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemary Brooman (Bertinelli), of Manasquan; his sons, David Jr. (Marie) of Altoona, Richard (Ali) of Boston, Kyle (Olivia) of Philadelphia, and Luke (Maddison) of Alexandria; his stepsons, Trevor Peszko of Philadelphia, 1LT. Mario E. Bertinelli of the U.S. Army in Prattville, Alabama, Nicholas Bertinelli (Alyssa) of Point Pleasant, and Luca Bertinelli of Manasquan; and six grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Leslie Barlow (Stephen) of Manasquan and Nancy Bellia of Brick, along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Hildegarde and Bankston Brooman; his brothers, William Brooman and Bankston Brooman; his brother-in-law, Richard Bellia; and his stepson, Anthony Bertinelli.