David W. Smith

David Wayne Smith 
(7/8/1953-9/21/24)
Best known as “Smitty” or “Captain Dave” David Wayne Smith, age 71, of Windsor NY, formerly of Vestal NY, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with early-onset Parkinsons Disease.  
David was predeceased by his loving parents Robert S. and Rose M. Smith and his beautiful daughter Kari E. Smith.  He is survived by The Woman of His Dreams and wife of 50 years Susan C. Smith (Raub), devoted daughter Janelle M. Smith, granddaughters Samantha L. Colwell and Raven H. Hathaway, and his “Itty Bitty Smitty,” grandson Vincent David Smith, whom he raised as a son. He also leaves behind his beloved sister Cynthia L. Smith and brother Robert “Bob” Smith (Anne), as well as a large extended family spanning 5 generations related by blood, marriage, and love.    
Somewhat infamously, Smitty attended Vestal High School until 1971, graduating from Windsor High School in 1972.  In 1982, he was hired as a machine maintenance technician at IBM Endicott where he proudly referred to himself as a “Zipperhead” for 20 years.   At the age of 61, he kicked off an illustrious 7 year Rock Steady Boxing career with Punch Out Parkinsons in Conklin, NY. An extremely committed founding member, Smitty fought his last round within days of his passing.  
David’s childhood summers were spent in campgrounds on the water; his life-long boating obsession inspired epic summer vacations at 1000 Islands with an ever-expanding entourage of family and friends.  Other than his First Mate Sue, there was little Captain Dave loved more than “glass off” and a “last hurrah” ski run on the Susquehanna. He leaves behind a vast and motley crew of “boat people.” Most of them unknowingly and unwittingly became recruited for life the first time they boarded his boat.  
Very Special Thanks to the Palliative Care Unit staff at Binghamton General Hospital who provided absolutely exceptional care during the last few days of Smitty’s life.  
In lieu of flowers, please consider placing a bet in Smitty’s honor on Rock Steady Boxing.  Mail checks payable to: Punch Out Parkinsons, Inc. 709 Conklin Rd. Binghamton, NY 13903.  A Last Hurrah Celebration of Smitty’s well-lived life will be held in the Spring of 2025.  

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