Obituary of David G. Gillette

SCHUYLER – Mr. David G. Gillette passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, at the MVHS St. Luke’s Campus. His passing occurred on his 76^th birthday and he was comforted with the love and support of his devoted family at his side.

Born on November 5, 1943, David was the son of the late Royce Gillette and Florence VanNort. He also knew the love of his late step-father, Michael Staffo and his late step-mother, Fran Gillette.

David was raised and educated in the Mohawk Valley, graduating from Frankfort-Schuyler High School with the Class of 1962. After he completed his schooling, David enlisted with the United States Navy and proudly served his country throughout the Vietnam Era. His honorable discharge took place on December 22, 1966 and he remained a proud veteran throughout the remainder of his life.

On November 19, 1965 David was wed to the former Judy A. Murdock and together they shared in almost fifty-four years filled with love and laughter. They were constantly together and never stopped flirting and the core of their relationship was their constant devotion to family.

For many years David worked as a machinist with various companies throughout the Mohawk Valley. As a young man, he was involved in various organizations and actively worked on cars as a hobby. To this day, he still maintained active membership with the American Legion. 

For David, life was centered around the love he had for his family. His daughters and grandchildren meant the world to him and he when his great-grandchildren came along, he worshipped the ground they walked on! He was very proud of his home and could often be found puttering around in his shed or tending to his immaculate yard. He had a strong love for the outdoors.

David will forever be remembered for his positive attitude, great sense of humor and contagious smile. He leaves a legacy of love to those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his daughters, Lora Bonavita and fiancé, Michael Insogna of Middleville and Lisa Taylor and fiancée, Brandon Avery of Ilion; his grandchildren, Jonathan Bonavita, Asha Bonavita, Teresa Cotton and Ryan Taylor; his adored great-grandchildren, Kayden Sherwood and Ellie Cotton; and his siblings, Ronald and Carol Gillette of Florida, George Gillette of West Winfield, Joan Paddock of Connecticut, Pamela and Douglas Broat of Frankfort and Cindy Markowitcz of Marcy. He also leaves his in-laws, Stanley and Beverly Murdock, Bill and Emily Murdock and Ronald Murdock and Linda; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

David was predeceased by his brother, Brian Gillette; his in-laws, Harold and Bridget Murdock, Christine Murdock, Marion Gillette, Carl Markowitcz and Emilie and Vincent “Babe” Nicolette.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation for David on Thursday, November 7, 2019 from 11:00AM – 12NOON at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. David’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 12NOON at the funeral home, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Procession will follow to West Schuyler Cemetery where his earthly remains will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, 110 Lomond Court, Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

The Gillette family has entrusted David’s final wishes to Harry and Kevin Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.