David Markham

Mr. David J. Markham, 72, of Great Valley, New York died Thursday morning, November 19, 2015 at his home.

Born March 30, 1943 in Salamanca, New York, he was the son of the late Merle “Boney” and Erma Sommers Markham.

Dave graduated from Ellicottville School in 1961. Afterward, he attended the Ranger School in Wanakena, NY, graduating in 1962.

In September of 1964, he married Sandra Bachman of Salamanca. They spent their first year living in the Catskills, before returning home to be closer to family.

Dave was employed at McHone’s Industry in Salamanca prior to his retirement. More recently, Dave enjoyed being home and spending time with his grandchildren. During his retirement, he also worked part-time at Pumpkinville in Great Valley, operating the cider mill and maintaining the mill and other machinery there. He was also a member of Krause’s Coffee Club in Great Valley.

In his youth, Dave enjoyed working on cars and in later years, he could be found tinkering in his garage fixing things or using the un-fixable to create something new. He loved to hunt, read books, and go camping. He also enjoyed bowling. He and Sandy participated in several leagues and tournaments. He was also a great fan of NASCAR and never missed a race! He enjoyed antique cars, whether it was seeing them in person, on TV, or just reading about them.

Dave’s true passion in life came in the form of his land. He poured his heart and soul into his trees and loved owning and operating Markham’s Plantations with Sandy. It was a family-run business started by his father. He took great pride in planting, caring for, and selling his Christmas trees and handmade wreaths.

Dave was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.

Surviving besides his wife are: a son, Steven Markham, Garnett, KS; two daughters, Stacy Nelligan, Hinsdale, NY, Amy (David) Beeman, Hinsdale, NY; six grandchildren, Peyton Markham, Meghan Bakken, Melissa Bakken, all of Garnett, KS, Daniel Nelligan, Sara Beeman, Matthew Beeman, all of Hinsdale, NY; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a brother, Paul Markham.

There will be no visitation.

A memorial service will be held in the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, New York, on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Ronald Mierzwa, pastor of Holy Name of Mary RC Church, officiating. E-condolences can be sent to john@orourke-orourke.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.