David B. Peoples, 80, of Auburn, NH, passed away on May 3, 2026 at the Elliot Hospital following a long battle with cancer. Born in Natick, MA on November 19, 1945, he was a son of the late Samuel and Edith (Hall) Peoples.

David was raised in Natick, MA and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from UMass Amherst. Shortly after his graduation, he worked as a tree climber for Cedar Lawn Tree Service, followed by several years of employment at the Manchester YMCA. He worked many jobs in carpentry and construction and ultimately worked as a carpenter for Dave Jenkins for the last 20 years of his career. After he retired, David returned to the YMCA to volunteer as a rock-climbing coach and to build the rock-climbing wall.

David had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed hiking, camping, and observing wildlife, especially birdwatching in his backyard. He was actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a volunteer and Outdoor Activities Coordinator, where he led numerous hiking and camping trips year-round. He also had a long connection with YMCA Camp Mi-Te-Na in Alton, New Hampshire, first as a camper, then a counselor, and ultimately the assistant camp director. David loved being around others and became a mentor to many young people over the years.

Family members include his brothers, Samuel Peoples III and his late wife Barbara Peoples of Natick and Donald Peoples and his wife Constance of Sharpsburg, MD; his nephews, Kevin Peoples and his wife Michele of Shelburne, VT and Scott Peoples and his wife Chelsea of Princeton, MA; his nieces, Valerie Dudash and her husband Michael of Sharpsburg, MD and Julie Peoples-Clark and her husband David of Burlington, VT; as well as several great-nephews and nieces; and many close friends and neighbors who helped to care for him during his illness.

A private burial will be held at Dell Park Cemetery in Natick, Massachusetts, in accordance with David’s wishes.

Assisting with arrangements is Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Manchester. To view David’s online tribute, send condolences to his family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net