Saturday, May 9, 2026 6:00 am

ROCHESTER - David W. "Froggie" Caplette, 74, passed away at home on April 27, 2026, after a period of failing health. He was born on January 9, 1952 in Rochester, NH to the late Wilfred and Doris (Gray) Caplette.

David grew up in Rochester, NH attending Gonic and Rochester schools. He was a member of the Spaulding High School graduating class of 1970.

After graduation he enlisted in the US Navy, where, after basiic training he was assigned to the USS Midway. It was while in the Navy that David began a career in food service and received the nickname "Froggie".

His work in food service led David to interesting opportunities including: work at the Balsams Hotel, Dixville Notch, NH, on an off shore oil rig in Louiana, Merchant Marines and the Ashworth Hotel in Hampton, NH. While at the Ashworth, David was mentored by Chuck Fornier, who instructed David in the art of ice sculpting and baking.

In 1985 David started Classic Cakes. He provided breads and sweet treats to local markets. He also supplied area restaurants with cart cakes and bread offerings. Many newly married couples included a wedding cake from Classic Cakes as part of their special day.

When the opportunity presented itself, David expanded his enterprise to include a breakfast/lunch restaurant named Froggies. He strove to provide an environment welcoming to families as well as small businesses. Froggies gained a reputation for its plate sized omelets and its $5 lunch specials. David locked the doors to Froggies in 2015 to start his next chapter.

In retirement David pursued his passion for bass fishing. Fishing from April to October, the only commitment he made durihg that time was to head to the lake early on fishing days. In the winter when the bass boat was under the tarp, he began making his own rubber lures. David purchased many bags of plaster of paris and melted down ripped lures, but with time and patience he produced an impressive inventory of rubber lures. He no longer needed to leave home to pack his tackle box.

David also pursued an item on his bucket list-leather smithing, watching YouTube videos and surfing the internet to learn the craft.. He produced gun holsters, knife sheeves and even a case for his smart flip phone. David displayed his artistic side making leather photo frames.

Members of his family include his life partner of 48 years, Deb Smith of Rochester, NH, a sister Diane Grassett and life partner Gary Philpott of Somersworth, NH, a nephew Geoffrey Grassett of Rochester, NH, a niece Jillian Blaise of Concord, NH and several Godchildren.