Dave Augustyn, 84, of Geneseo, NY, passed away on October 19, 2023. He was born on December 7, 1938, in Buffalo, NY, to Stanley and Mary Augustyn. Dave is survived by his wife Gloria, his daughter Suzanne and husband Robert McEvoy, his son Craig Augustyn and wife Lori, his sister Barbara Lesswing, his grandchildren Caitlyn Augustyn, Cassidy Augustyn and Jay Traina, Carly Augustyn, Celine and Nick Taccone, and his grandchildren’s mother Cheryl Augustyn Frasier. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Dave had a fulfilling educational journey, starting at Most Holy Redeemer Parochial School in Buffalo, NY, where he graduated as the class president in 1953. He then attended Seneca Vocational High School, where he graduated as an electrician in 1957 and served as the class representative. Continuing his education, Dave studied metallurgy at Erie Community College.
Throughout his career, Dave achieved notable milestones and gained diverse experiences. He attained the rank of Life Scout and worked as a newspaper route carrier. During high school, he worked in concrete construction and at a greenhouse florist shop. Afterward, he spent three years at Republic Steel in the Open Hearth Department. However, his most significant professional achievement was his 30-year tenure as a Material and Production Control Manager for General Motors in Tonawanda, NY. He retired at the age of 52 in 1990. Following his retirement, Dave and Gloria relocated to Varysburg, NY, where they built their own passive-solar Polyrama (18-sided) circular home. This became the beloved site, “Deer Haven”, for family and friends to enjoy.
Dave’s hobbies were a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors. He embarked on numerous outdoor expeditions in New York State and Canada, including extensive canoeing in the Hudson Bay Arctic watershed. He enjoyed bear and caribou hunting, as well as brook trout fishing in the James Bay Canada watershed.
Dave’s passion for the outdoors led him to author two books: “Campfire Tales” featuring “The Good Ghost Elmer Haven” and “My Six Dog Tales and a Cat Named Hobo,” and his second book, “Tanzania Mission,” which chronicled his experience building a Bible School in Africa with nine other men. He explored most of North America, including Alaska, the Yukon Territory, and various Canadian provinces.
Dave cherished spending time with his four beautiful granddaughters, teaching them about nature and introducing them to activities such as canoeing, fishing, archery, camping, and leadership. In 2005, he and his wife settled in Geneseo, NY, where he continued to enjoy archery, hunting, ice fishing, gardening, beekeeping, and croquet.
Dave Augustyn will be remembered for his deep passion for the Lord and making Him known, great love for his family, and his adventurous spirit. He leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of exploration and appreciation for nature and the great outdoors.
A ‘Celebration of Life’ followed by a light luncheon and fellowship will be provided to honor Dave’s life. It will be held on Saturday, November 11th at Faith Fellowship Church, located at 5630 Pebble Beach Road, Lakeville, NY, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dave’s honor to Faith Fellowship Church at the link provided below, or written to the Livingston County Hospice Program by sending a check to 2 Murray Hill Drive, Mt. Morris, NY 14510.
Donations can be directed to Faith Fellowship Church.
My cousin Dave was like a big brother to me but even more so, a mentor. He was a leader by nature and an avid outdoorsman. Even though for most of our lives we lived apart, he in New York State and me in Florida. I remember going to their retreat in Deer Haven in the 90’s, what an awesome place to live. That’s where I was treated to some campfire tales, which became part of his book. Even though our communications were few we reconnected about 10 years ago and he helped me in my spiritual walk with the Lord. I treasure the 2nd book he wrote, “Mission to Tanzania” and reflections on the Scriptures, which he gifted me. I’ve often thought of the many lives he’s touched through scouting, mentoring fellow hunters and friends and of course family. What a legacy he created. May he rest in peace in the arms of his Lord.
Gloria and Family. Please accept our deepest sympathies from my family to yours. May your many memories of a wonderful life with David help you through these difficult times.
It has been many years since we have seen each other,. David was one of the ushers for my Mom and Dad’s wedding back in May 1953 (Grace and Norb Jaskowiak,, my Mom’s cousin). It’s so very true when they say once the older family members pass, we lose touch with the remaining family.
Margie Jaskowiak Scamacca
Dear Gloria and family: I am saddened to read of David death. I remember him from Most Holy Redeemer Church and the Schiller Park neighborhood where we grew up. He was a friend to my late husband, Jim. Also you and I worked together at US Fidelity and Guarantee so there wass that other connection. He accomplished so much and will be missed by so many. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Much love and peace, Arlene Kisker.
Sending our sincere condolences to Dave’s family and friends from our family. We appreciated talking with Dave during his time hunting on our neighbor’s land last season. He was very kind and thoughtful about keeping us informed and providing a gift of appreciation. May he Rest In Peace. –Kathy, Hop and Nicole Manapol, Geneseo NY
I was amazed to read of Dave’s life and his many adventures and projects. I am so very to learn of his loss, and will be looking forward to meeting you again some day. Gloria, I was so sorry to learn of your loss, and pray that you only have happy memories and no sadness. In His love – Meg