David W. Gens

David W. Gens, 64, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, after an extraordinary 11-year battle with a rare form of cancer. Born Dec. 1, 1960, at Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, New York, David spent his entire life in the Fredonia-Dunkirk area. He attended Fredonia Central Schools and graduated from BOCES in 1982. Throughout his life, David worked diligently at several local establishments, including BOCES, Forest Hills Cemetery, The White Inn, Cliff Star, Red Wing, and Applebee’s.

David was a member of the Fredonia Methodist Church and Fredonia Grange #1. David was active in his youth as a member of Boy Scout Troop 267. One of his fondest memories was a cross-country summer adventure with 23 fellow Scouts on a converted school bus–an experience he cherished for the rest of his life.

David was a passionate NASCAR fan and loved cheering on the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. He especially enjoyed attending NASCAR events with his best friend, the late David Lewandowski. In recent years, David proudly participated in Special Olympics bowling and was actively involved in the Advocacy Group through The Resource Center. He also enjoyed trips with the “People and Places” group, always eager for new experiences.

David’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family and friends. He was known for his warm, kind-hearted nature and genuine appreciation for everyone he met. His smile, humor, and steadfast spirit touched all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving mother, Maxine (Bull) Gens of Erie, PA; siblings Karen Jakiel (Bruce) and Brian Gens (Steven Wing); nephew Sean Schellhammer (Christina Reinhardt); nieces Kimberly Webb (Scott) and Stephanie Hermes; great-nephew Jackson Webb; and great-nieces Madison Jakiel Kulesza and Emma Hermes. He is also fondly remembered by many cousins, his “adopted” sister, Cindy Coniglio, his housemates from The Resource Center, and a wide circle of friends.

David was preceded in death by his father, George H. Gens; his paternal grandparents, Henry and Lena (Raymond) Gens; his maternal grandparents, Ray and Arlie (Cave) Bull; his best friend, David Lewandowski; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The Gens family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Renuka Iyer and Dr. Raman Sood, whose compassionate care, along with the many prayers from friends and loved ones, gave David the gift of many more cherished years. Gratitude is also extended to the staff of The Resource Center and Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care for their unwavering support. Visitation will be held at the LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Ave. Fredonia on Monday June 16, 2025 from 4-7 pm. Funeral Services will be held at the Fredonia Methodist Church, 25 Church St., Fredonia on Tuesday June 17, 2025 at 11 am. Memorial contributions in David’s memory may be made to The Resource Center or Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care. David’s funeral service will be streamed live on his site on the funeral home web site, larsontimkofuneralhome.com. On-line condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com.. Arrangements by David J. Dengler.