David John Rowland, esteemed attorney and dedicated advocate, died at his residence in New York City on August 15, 2023. Born in New London, Connecticut on March 21, 1956 to Barbara and John Robert Rowland, David spent most of his childhood years in East Lyme, CT near the Long Island sound where he attended public schools. Most of his summers were spent on the shore, where he enjoyed beaching, swimming and fishing. When his parents joined the local yacht club, he became a passionate sailor and enjoyed participating in the weekly Saturday afternoon "Zip" class sailboat races at the club.

David graduated with a bachelor's degree from Trinity College in 1978, then went on to earn his J.D. from New York Law School as well as a diploma in Advanced International Legal Studies from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

After studying the German language in high school, David spent his junior year of college abroad in Vienna, Austria. These experiences fostered his love of all things Germanic, leading him to practice law in both Berlin and New York, helping to bridge the gap between continents.

Well known in the legal field, David dedicated over 30 years of his career to specializing in international legal transactions, including restitution of East German property following German reunification. One of David's greatest passions was his work towards reclaiming stolen Nazi art for its rightful heirs. His work not only restored precious artifacts to families but also mended a fragment of history, ensuring justice for those wronged. David represented claimants in several high-profile art restitution cases, including the recovery of the "Watzmann" by Caspar David Friedrich and the restitution of the "Berlin Street Scene" by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. He also authored over 20 articles, published in both English and German in leading newspapers and law journals around the world.

David is survived by his loving mother, Barbara, who resides in Weston, CT, and two sisters: Leslie married to William Jacques of Wayland, MA, and Liz married to Paul Gagne of Darien, CT.  He will also be remembered with great love by his six nieces and nephews - John Jacques, Tom Jacques, Chloe Jacques, Renee Gagne, Andrew Gagne, and Nicole Gagne for his stories, wisdom, and the lessons he imparted.

David's reach extended far beyond his family. He will be fondly remembered, and never forgotten, by a close circle of friends that he kept for decades. David was greatly admired for his endless interest in and curiosity for art, music, and foreign cultures. His drive to be a lifelong learner, combined with how genuinely he treated and cherished his close personal relationships, were a testament to his character, integrity, and strong sense of loyalty.

The Rowland, Jacques and Gagne families would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support during this challenging time. David's indomitable spirit and impactful work will forever resonate in the hearts of many.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David's memory can be directed to the National Arts Club of which he was a long-standing member and proud supporter of their mission to increase accessibility and education around the arts.

Donate to the National Arts Club at https://www.nationalartsclub.org/Default.aspx?p=DynamicModule&pageid=400027&ssid=323332&vnf=1

Condolences can be sent in the mail to 215 Glezen Ln, Wayland, MA 01778 or shared via email to davidrowlandfamily@gmail.com .