Obituary of David W. Cleveland Sr.

David W. Cleveland Sr. Dundee: David W. Cleveland Sr., passed away February 17th, 2022 peacefully at home with family at the age of 87. Friends are invited to calling hours 6:00-8:00 pm Tuesday (Feb. 22) at the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee; where his funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon Wednesday (Feb. 23) with Elaine Gleason officiating. He is loved and will be dearly missed by his wife of nearly 60 years Shirley J. Cleveland at home; his children Carl Wayne (Mildred P.) Cleveland, Joy Lynn Cleveland Perry, Thomas Bruce (Christina M.) Cleveland, Son-in-law Ronald A. Perry, like a son John W. Burritt, all of Dundee, David W. (Colleen) Cleveland, Jr., of Illinois, Debra (Phil) Holden, and Sherry (David) Corcoran both of Dundee, and many grandchildren. Besides his parents he was predeceased by a son Daniel Mark Cleveland, grandson Adam Daniel Smith, granddaughter Maranda Lee Cleveland, daughter Sandra Lee Smith and her husband/son-in-law Ross Edward Smith and mother-in-law Marietta E. Kuroczka. He loved and cared for his two dogs, Jade and Rosy who will dearly miss him. He was born on October 18th, 1934 in Elmira, NY. He was the son of the late Paul Cleveland, Sr. and Winifred Philp. He was married to the love of his life, Shirley Zahorian Voorhees Cleveland for almost 60 years. Dave was well known for his expertise in repairing tractors and grape harvesters. He ran his own business, Cleveland Farm Repair from their homestead on the hill since 1980. Prior to that he worked at the Dundee Ford Garage for many years. He could repair about anything that had a motor. He was also known for his talent, welding. You couldn't find a better welder. He welded at the Dundee Stockcar Racetrack for fifty-one years. His children would often say in their young years "Daddy will weld it" even if it were a plastic toy. Dave was an avid hunter who took pride and the time to teach his children, grandchildren and other young people close to the family how to safely hunt. He was big into racing; himself when he was younger and then mentored his son, brother-in-law and even built his daughter a car in her junior year of high-school. Dave farmed for many years. He loved playing cards, gardening, dancing, country music, fishing and camping with his family. He was a foster father for many years and welcomed his children's friends into their home for a place to stay and for a guiding hand when in need. He was well loved and respected by many. Dave passionately loved his family more than the air he breathed. He would move mountains for his children, grandchildren and his wife who was his best friend and love. He was known for his strength on every level. He will always be a legend in his family's eyes. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Dundee Fire Company Emergency Squad 12 Union St. Dundee, NY 14837. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.