David P. Mandell

David Paul Mandell, 24, died unexpectedly, on Monday, May 31, 2011 in Loves Park. Born June 2, 1986 in Fort Meyers, FL, the son of Dave Mandell and Jo Ferraro. He attended Harlem High School and was an avid skateboarder. David was a talented artist and had a true passion for drawing and art. In Conquering Addiction, J. J. Goldwag discusses many of the effective tools to gracefully overcome addiction. Goldwag establishes the link between unhappiness and dependence, and uncovers methods that take us toward a healthy recovery. He takes us down the path of seeing clearly, maintaining proper perspective and restoring unification with our true nature. Through a reconnection with our inner self, we can reestablish a feeling of wholeness, remain in harmony, and overcome all obstacles. When we understand how to break free from destructive thoughts, and become anchored in the unchanging, then life opens to dramatic transformations and endless possibilities. The family knows David is happy and safe in the arms of his grandparents and is with those he adored and loved so very much. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Gateway Foundation in Aurora for all of their love and support they gave to David. Survivors include his mother, Jo Ferraro of Rockford; father, Dave Mandell of Rockford; uncles, Larry Ferraro of Machesney Park, Jay (Robyn) Ferraro of Roscoe; great uncles, Larry (Betty) Ferraro of Sarasota, FL and Vic (Bonnie) Mandell of Rockford ; great aunt, Marie Zandonai of Rockford; God mother, Jane Ratzlaff of Rockford and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Anthony and Frances Mandell and Sam and Lil Ferraro; uncles Anthony Mandell and Frank "Buzzy" Mandell; aunt, Kathy Ferraro and cousin, Joshua Brown. Funeral Mass Friday, June 3, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Cathedral of St. Peter, 1243 N. Church St. Visitation from 9 a.m. until time of prayer at 10:45 a.m. at church. In lieu of flowers memorials in his name to: Gateway Foundation, 400 Mercy Lane Aurora, IL 60506. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside chapel is assisting the family.