David S. Zawatski

David S. Zawatski, 72 of Salamanca, NY died Thursday evening, January 5, 2023 at home.

Born May 27, 1950 in Salamanca, NY, he was the son of the late Stanley and Dorothy Lontz Zawatski.

He attended Holy Cross Catholic School, where he was an altar boy, and later attended Salamanca High School.

David was a proud Vietnam veteran who served from 1968 – 1970 with the United States Marine Corps. After his discharge from the Marines, he became an Olean patrolman. He continued his service working for the US Border Patrol and later became a US Customs Agent stationed in Florida.

David was also a pilot, obtaining his license in New York and owning his own airplane for several years. After retiring, David enjoyed gardening and traveling in his RV, stopping along the way at a casino or two. He was also the godfather to his first born grandchild, Kathryn.

Surviving are: four children, David V. (Victoria Violette) Zawatski, Dana M. (Richard) Hopkins, Brian M. Zawatski, Bridgette L. (Aaron Geise) Zawatski; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Dan Zawatski, Olean, NY; his longtime companion, Becky Mohr.

He was predeceased by his parents, aunt Viola Beeman who raised him, a special friend Mickey Ellis in 1999, and his father-in-law, Vincent Ross in 1984, whom he considered his friend.

There will be no visitation.

A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.