Obituary of David J. Wilczewski

David Wilczewski, Lockport New York passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, with his loving wife Martha Ann (Marti) at his side.  David was a life -long area resident; and has been living with Alzheimer’s for the past few years.

David was born on September 21, 1943.  He was one of two children born to the late Sophia and John Wilczewski of Buffalo NY.  David was predeceased by his former wife; Cheryl Glass Wilczewski, with whom he had three children with.

David is survived by his adoring wife, Martha Ann (Marti) Braunbach-Wilczewski of Lockport NY; his 3 children, and 4 grandchildren. 

David attended Seneca Vocational School and went on to graduate from Cornell University School of Industrial & Labor Relations. David prided himself in his career with Dunlop Tire and Sumitomo Rubber Japan. He was highly respected for his ingenuity, integrity and honesty.

David was also a retired volunteer Fireman in Buffalo and Cheektowaga NY.  He was also proud to serve with his cousin, Eugene Budziszewski, a retired Lieutenant, Fireman.

When David retired from Dunlop, it was the start of the second chapter of his life.  He met and married his beloved wife Martha Ann (Marti). He was filled with opportunities, smiles and laughter with the love he shared with Marti.  David loved being a part of Buffalo Bandstand. Later in time, Marti and Dave loved to dance, sing and traveled adventurously.  David and Marti enjoyed fine dining; and both were avid food connoisseurs.  They traveled fearlessly, several times a year to Las Vegas, Aruba and other wonderful destinations. One of their favorite places to visit often (perhaps one of the closest to his heart), was the magical and luxurious Niagara on the Lake (Prince of Wales); the very place David and Marti celebrated being married.

David befriended people everywhere he went.  You could always count on great conversations with him.  David warmed your heart just by being in his presence. He listened with a ‘smile’ on his face as he engaged in conversation. David is historically known for his great story telling, his wittiness and humor. He had a contagious smile and laugh. His step-grandchildren, Adam and Christopher were especially enamored and touched by David’s selfless help as the three of them built many things together during David’s memory loss and decline.

David was a true gentleman and a guy’s guy. He was well known and respected for his abundance of generosity, kindness and love. David’s journey was marked by his thoughtfulness and loving heart that touched everyone he encountered. He was always the man who would and did, help anyone in need.  He appreciated the love he received in return.  His spirit, a blend of compassion and strength will continue to guide the ones that loved him. Davids bountiful gifts to charities, schools and churches is forever beholden and indelible. David was passionate about his faith.

David loved his sports! He loved the New York Yankees and loved being a spectator of the Buffalo Bills games!  

He also found the joy of uncovering the world of small gambling and earned his adorned name “Vegas Dave”.

David was an avid bowler; and is in The Bowling Hall of Fame where he ‘sandwiched’ a perfect score when David was 42 years old.

David will miss Elvis his treasured Cat. He had a special love of dogs and will miss Rusty too. David will forever miss the spirit of Christmas. He loved the sparkling lights, ornaments and decorations of Christmas. He loved the everlasting spirit it bestowed upon him. David’s laughter, wisdom and the warmth of his embrace will be deeply missed. The memories Dave created will forever be the source of comfort and inspiration to those who were privileged to know him.

The past few years David attended The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Adult Day Care. This allowed David to meet new people and aided him in maintaining his strength, excitement for life and helped with his continued excellent care.

Special thanks to Felix Pollock, he was David’s driver and friend.  Felix was instrumental in starting David’s day and David was blessed with Felixs’ friendship.

Marti will forever be grateful for the people who helped her to care for her special treasured husband. Special thanks to the many people that came from the Hospice Care & Support Team, Doctors & Office staff. Hospice should be recognized as the one who orchestrated the lovely Music sessions for David. David would listen to beautiful voices, guitars and instruments and David wiggled his toes and smiled along with every song. Pet Therapy was a cherished time, when the happy dogs came to see David; how his face lit up. The sunlight that came in through all the windows, along with the beauty and safety of being at home, brought the very peace and joy David deserved. David was surrounded by peace, love and harmony each day. What a beautiful and blissful exit of this world, it was.

A special thanks to Dr. Pal and staff.  We appreciate holding open doors, and all the free smiles. “Hello Dave” (with all the pleasantries), will always be remembered.

In David’s last months, it was the dedication of Mark LaPort, Marti’s cousin, and Susan LaPort (Marti’s sister), that came to help David move about. A special thanks for the guidance, friendship and love of Jim and Joan Mason.

David was a precious human being in Marti’s life. Marti made sure David had everything he needed. Whether it was David’s favorite ice cream or popsicles, you name it, and David had it. Marti’s love, compassion and care, was the very things David had every day of his life. Marti and David were blessed to have had each other. They were together for almost 20 years. They loved one another to the end.  Marti’s love, her husband.

Towards the end of David’s life, he may have forgotten many things. But those that knew him best, will always remember David as  “Unforgettable”.

“Death is nothing else but going home to God; the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity” - “Do ya wanna dance under the moonlight”

Donations graciously accepted at the  Niagara Hospice 4675 Sunset Drive Lockport, NY 14094 or Ralph C. Wilson  Jr. Adult Day Care Services North Tonawanda 3780 Commerce Court #100 North Tonawanda NY 14120