Volunteer Spotlight – Dave Morency

Celebrating a Lifetime of Dedication: Dave Morency’s Legacy with Special Olympics New Hampshire

Dave Morency’s legacy is more than just a story of a loving father and devoted volunteer—it is one of a deep, enduring commitment to Special Olympics New Hampshire, a journey he shared hand-in-hand with his daughter, Kerry, for over 25 years. Through countless events, competitions, and community engagements, Dave’s passion for empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities left an indelible mark on the organization, its participants, and especially his daughter.

A Special Bond Through Special Olympics

Dave and Kerry’s involvement with Special Olympics New Hampshire began when Kerry was just 12 years old. Initially joining the Derry Recreation Department’s Penguin Local Program, Kerry quickly found a home in the organization, and soon after, so did Dave. A few years later, Dave and Kerry created a new Local Program called “Team Challenger,” named after Kerry’s fascination with the Space Shuttle Challenger. Together, they nurtured and grew their program into something extraordinary, with Dave coaching and Kerry competing in bocce, snowshoeing, and other events.

For Dave, Special Olympics wasn’t just an extracurricular activity; it was a second family. Whether at the Winter Games in Waterville Valley or the Summer Games at UNH, Dave’s enthusiasm never wavered. Kerry fondly recalls how much Dave loved bowling at Funspot, a tradition they looked forward to every year. Even as a father-daughter duo, their competitive spirit shone through as they teamed up for bocce ball doubles, fostering a sense of unity and achievement they would treasure forever.

Overcoming Personal Challenges

In the last few years of his life, Dave’s battle with colon cancer added a profound layer of resilience to his story. Despite his illness, his spirit remained undaunted. Kerry shares how Dave continued to support her, even while undergoing chemotherapy, by calling her from the hospital to check on her performance during competitions. Kerry proudly recalls winning three gold medals in his honor during the Winter Games while Dave was receiving treatment. For Dave, Special Olympics was not just about competition—it was about community, pride, and supporting his daughter’s dreams.

The Joy of Giving Back

Dave and Kerry doing the D-I-Y Plunge in 2020

Dave’s commitment to giving back wasn’t limited to the games. He and Kerry were enthusiastic participants in the annual Penguin Plunge, a fundraising event for Special Olympics. The event, which involves a brisk dip into icy waters in the middle of winter, was something Dave cherished. Kerry says it was “the ultimate favorite” activity for both of them. While Dave participated for over 20 years, Kerry is now continuing the tradition in his memory, honoring his dedication with every plunge she takes.

Beyond Special Olympics: Santa’s Village

Another chapter of Dave’s life that brought joy to both him and Kerry was his involvement with Santa’s Village, a beloved amusement park where Dave worked as a ride operator and even played Santa Claus. The experience was magical for Dave, who loved seeing children’s faces light up as they met Santa or enjoyed the park’s rides. For Kerry, it was yet another reminder of her father’s kindness, dedication, and joy in making others happy. The staff at Santa’s Village became a second family to the Morencys, and it remains a place Kerry continues to visit, holding onto the memories they made there.

A Legacy That Lives On

Dave and Kerry leading the reading of the Special Olympics Athlete Oath at Opening Ceremonies.

As Kerry reflects on her father’s life, the one thing she says she will always remember is how much Dave loved her and how proud he was of her achievements in Special Olympics. Though he is no longer here, Kerry’s commitment to making him proud lives on through her continued involvement in the games. Whether she’s training, competing, or taking the plunge in freezing water, Kerry knows her father is with her in spirit, cheering her on from above.

Dave Morency’s legacy at Special Olympics New Hampshire is one of love, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to making the world a better place. His journey with Kerry touched the lives of countless athletes, coaches, and volunteers, and his spirit will continue to inspire for generations to come.