To honor his contribution to the 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center, the family of David C. Bryant has created the David C. Bryant Memorial Capital Fund.

Bryant passed away at the age of 83 on Feb. 5.

In recognition of Bryant’s engineering and planning background, the fund will be used to advance the technological and physical aspects of the Opera House, in order to support the continued presentation of quality performances and to ensure patron comfort.

Bryant was a longtime supporter and member of the Opera House having been involved in its restoration as a volunteer during the 1980s and 1990s.

“It was, in fact, David who developed the rigging system for the Opera House’s chandelier,” said Rick Davis, 1891 Fredonia Opera House executive director. “We can raise and lower the chandelier today thanks to David’s inventiveness in crafting a system that straddles the large dome in the Opera House ceiling.”

More recently, and prior to the theatre’s closure during the COVID pandemic, Bryant and his wife, Lucy, were frequent moviegoers at the theatre as well as volunteers as needed for various work projects.

“Now that we have reopened, we miss seeing David’s ever-present smile at the Cinema Series,” Davis said. “We are grateful to Lucy and David’s son, Sam, for remembering him through this fund. We hope it will continue to grow and support the Opera House while honoring David’s memory for many years to come.”

Creation of the fund was announced at the Bryant’s celebration of life service on Saturday in Russell Joy Park. To date, nearly $1,500 has been contributed to the rund. Donations to the fund can be made in any amount at any time by visiting the Opera House Box Office or calling 679-1891. Box office hours are noon to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.