David A. “Dave” Markel – (75) – of 6202 Gypsy Hill Road, Hornell, died Monday afternoon (November 14, 2022) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, following a brief illness.
Born in Hornell on May 17, 1947, he was the son of Andrew & Margaret (Snowden) Markel.
David grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1966). Following high school graduation, he attended Wanakena Ranger School (College of Environmental Science and Forestry) in Wanakena, NY.
For about 4 years, Dave was employed as an “Electrical Apprentice” for the former Erie Railroad. In 1968 he was drafted into the US Army during the Vietnam Conflict and served his country for 2 years before re-enlisting and fulfilling his dream of becoming a Green Beret. He was honorably discharged in 1971.
Following his honorable discharge from the military, Dave returned to the Hornell area and resumed his employment with the railroad. For about 5 years, he served as a Journeyman Electrician for the former Erie Railroad, Erie-Lackawanna Railroad and Conrail. He later worked as a Maintenance Electrician for the Groveland Correctional Facility in Sonya, NY. He retired in 2009.
David was an outdoorsman who truly loved and appreciated and the beauty of nature. He was an avid hunter (deer & small game) and also enjoyed fishing. He was an avid New York Yankee fan and also loved visiting the casinos, especially in Salamanca and Finger Lakes. Dave was a longtime member of the Hornell American Legion, the Carducci Lodge (Sons of Italy) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Markel; sister-in-law, Patricia “Pat” Raynor) Markel.
David was married on May 5, 1973 to the former Angela Daniels who survives. Also surviving are his daughter, Pam (Craig Button) Markel of Hornell; 2 sons, Greg (Jenn Close) Markel of Portmouth, NH and Tim Markel of Painted Post; 3 brothers, John (Betty) Markel of Hornell, Steve Markel of Hornell and Tom (Kathy) Markel of Arkport; 1 sister, Ruth Watier of Lockport; his half-sister, Barbara (Richard) Mazzerese of Endicott; sister-in-law, Mary Markel of California; several nieces & nephews.
The family of David A. “Dave” Markel will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church. Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Dave’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
In recognition to David’s service to his country as a member of the US Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
To Dave’s family. Your memories will carry you forward. My deep sympathy for your loss.
RIP boss! The time I worked with you at GE Hornell Transportation was the best! A great boss who became a life friend. Always enjoyed seeing you around Hornell with your boss, Ang. I look forward to seeing you again “up there”.
To Angie & Family,
So sorry for your loss. I cannot make it on Thurs but please know that my sincere thoughts & prayers are with you.
Bob Blauers
Yesterday I was shocked to hear of the loss of good friend David. He and Angela are close friends to us throughout many years and neighbors for > 45 years. We all played cards, vacationed together, cried together, partied together and danced together on many occasions. He preferred Creedance and Crackling Rosie as I recall! Our children grew up together and played together throughout their growing years. Many a time David would venture on down even during a snowstorm from up the hill, where they lived even if it required snow shoes, fast forward to these past years when he would come by 4wheeler snow plow to plow me and neighbors out, he was a wonderful friend and neighbor and will be missed greatly. I will never forget all the wonderful memories. Hugs and love to Angela, Greg, Pam and Timmy, God bless you with comfort and peace during this very sad time, very sorry. ❤️
,
Thank you Dan he is going to be missed!
Angela & Family
Was so shocked to hear. Thoughts & Prayers to your family. I let all my family know. Tommy
Dave, the girls and I are going to miss you at Billy Schu’s . You would always have a joke and a smile as you and your cronies would discuss the Yankees, The Bills, or politics. Perhaps you can help all three out from your new seat above!
Angela & Family….I’ve enjoyed Dave’s company and friendship for several years.
We met over coffee at Billy Schus and have solved the worlds problems and laughed together 3 times a week ever since. Dave was always so proud of you and the kids. He will be greatly missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
I’m so very sorry for your loss. There are no words, just know you’re in my prayers. What a wonderful guy, David was. God bless you and bring you comfort
Angela & Family,
I was so shocked when I looked up the Evening Tribune and saw David’s name in the obituaries. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest condolences along with my love, hugs and prayers. It’s times like this I wish I didn’t live so far away.
Dorina
Angela & Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. I have known David since I was a kid when he used to hang our with my Uncle Mike. He was a great person. Keeping you in our thoughts & prayers.
Sue
Sincerest condolences, Angela, to you and your family. So sorry for your loss of a good husband, father and friend. Prayers are sent your way!
Dear Angie and family,
Sending hugs and love to you and your children and family. I so enjoyed visiting with him at our Loon Lake annual reunions. It was a great visit each year to keep our friends and families in touch over the years. He was always a joy to talk to and he always had a smile on his face. What a gracious guy!!! Thinking of you and yours at this time. Please know I send thought and prayers. MY he RIP.
Love, Karen Piccirillo Kelly ❤️
Angela and Family: so sorry to read of David`s passing. A gentle soul with a great sense of humor, always kind and supportive. I knew Dave all my life one of the Lincoln School crew, may he rest in peace.