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David Gambino

David Gambino

David Gambino, 64, a long-time resident of Fredonia, NY, passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his retirement home in Arkwright, with his loving wife at his side on Thursday, March 26, 2020

Born on September 11, 1955 in Dunkirk, NY, David was the son of Jack & Altha Gambino. He was a 1974 graduate of Fredonia High School, where he played Football. As a youngster he assisted his Father in the family business at Thruway Super Service Gas Station. On May 14th, 1977 he married his High School sweetheart, Polly Morse, at the First United Methodist Church in Fredonia. Together Dave and Polly first leased, then purchased the family business from his Dad and successfully operated the Thruway Super Service in Dunkirk, until they retired in 2017 after 40+ years servicing the Western NY communities. In 2013 David was recognized by the Business Club of SUNY Fredonia as “Business Person of the Year” for providing outstanding business leadership, integrity and genuine concern for his employees at Thruway Super Service

A devout Christian, David was a longtime member & active volunteer at the First United Methodist Church in Fredonia. As a Church volunteer he served on multiple Helping Hands Missions assisting in rebuilding homes throughout the country that were severely damaged by hurricanes and flooding. David loved his family and spending time together at his retirement home in Arkwright. His grandchildren were his pride and joy; He recently celebrated the arrival of his 9thgrandchild, Dawson David Gambino, just a few weeks ago. He had a passion for the outdoors including hunting & fishing, Sunday breakfast with many of his friends, travelling with his wife, and enjoyed listening to music, especially Elvis. David was well known by his grandchildren for building some awesome camp fires for their s’mores

For the last few years, David battled a grade 4 glioblastoma that was diagnosed in April 2017. During this time David cherished every moment he was able to spend with family and friends. Despite the health obstacles he faced, David showed incredible strength and courage, and while doing so, he inspired everyone who loved him. He won the admiration of doctors, nurses and anyone who assisted in his medical care. His strong belief in Christ, the love for his family and always optimistic attitude allowed him to enjoy a good quality of life during his battle.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 43 years, Polly, of Arkwright and 3 children; daughter, Heather & Andy Palmer, of Blasdell, NY and their children Ginny, Sammy, Maddy, Trin, & Nate; daughter, Marcy & David Merchant of Whitesboro, NY along with their children Dominic & Daniella; and a son, DJ & Samantha Gambino of Fredonia, NY and their children Addison & Dawson; siblings, Paul, Josie, Rosie, Joe, Mark, and Lynn; step-mother Francis Gambino; His brothers & sister in-law, Jack, Ronny, Sue, and Donny; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, in-laws, and family friends including a special nephew, Jeff Gambino (FLA). He was predeceased by his father and mother, Jack & Altha; his in-law’s, Marvin & Diane Morse (Fredonia); and his brother Jack Joseph (FLA)

David and his family would like to extend a special thank you to Pastor Nettie, from the First United Methodist Church of Fredonia, Dr Fenstermaker, Dr Abad, and all of the many healthcare professionals at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, whose incredible care over the last 3 years helped him continue to thrive. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no calling hours or Church services. Instead there will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church in Fredonia, NY. Online condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home.