Remembering David Krempels 1949–2026
David Michael Krempels, 76, passed away on April 17 after a courageous battle with bone cancer.
A visionary nonprofit founder and advocate, David transformed personal tragedy into a lifeline for thousands of individuals living with brain injury. Following a devastating motor vehicle accident in 1992 that claimed the life of his first wife, Ettamae, and left him with a severe traumatic brain injury, David endured years of physical, emotional, and financial hardship. Rather than retreat, he chose to rebuild—with purpose.
Using a portion of his legal settlement, David founded what is now the Krempels Brain Injury Center in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Over more than two decades, the organization has grown into a nationally recognized model for community-based support, helping individuals navigate life after brain injury with dignity, connection, and hope.
Born on November 18, 1949, in Pennsylvania, David was the son of Reverend Robert A. Krempels and Mary Catherine Krempels. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1973 and built a successful career as a contractor known for his integrity and craftsmanship. His commitment to doing what was right—regardless of cost—defined both his professional and personal life.
David was guided by a deep sense of faith and responsibility, often reflecting on the belief: “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required.” That principle shaped his life’s work and the enduring impact he leaves behind.
He was predeceased by both parents; his first wife, Ettamae Ferguson; and brother, Robert Douglas Krempels of Kankakee, Ill.
He is survived by his second wife, Mary (Roddy) Coulson Krempels, of Kittery Point, Me.; sister Deborah McAfee (Kevin), of Greenville, Me.; his father’s second wife, Virginia (Ambrose) Perna Krempels, of Hagerstown, Md.; Ettamae’s two children: Max Ferguson (Lili), of Hampton, N.H., and Bobbi Mae Lariviere (Philip), of Dover, N.H.; his brother’s wife, Wendy; many nieces. nephews and cousins—and his beloved dog, Finnley.
David’s legacy lives on through the community he built, and the countless lives changed by his vision.
A public memorial will be held on Wednesday May 20th at 10am at the Community Campus, home of Krempels Brain Injury Center, 100 Campus Drive, Portsmouth, NH 03801. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Krempels Brain Injury Center, and that attendees wear blue for brain injury awareness.