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David R. Williamson, 66, of Rochester, New York, passed away on Thursday March 26th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a short but courageous battle with ALS. Before his passing, David asked that this message be shared: “Thank you for the love I received in my life from family and friends ❤️.”
David spent his career as a machinist, where precision and problem-solving weren’t just part of the job, they were part of who he was. Like his father before him, he had a natural gift for figuring things out. If something broke, he fixed it. If something didn’t exist, he built it. His philosophy was simple: “Can’t find it? Make it.” And he did, time and time again, often with a creativity that left others shaking their heads in admiration.
He was the quiet one in the room, but anyone who knew him knew to listen closely, because when he spoke, it was usually something unexpectedly funny and perfectly timed. He had a sharp, observant sense of humor, the kind that would sneak up on you and leave you laughing long after. He was also fiercely protective of his sisters, looking out for them in both big and small ways, a steady presence they could always count on.
Outside of work, David found his peace in the outdoors tinkering on his many projects in the yard or garage, hunting with his father before his passing, boating, and fishing whenever he could. A firearms enthusiast, a passion he learned from his father, he appreciated the skill, responsibility, and tradition that came with it.
He also had a deep appreciation for antique radios and clocks, drawn to their craftsmanship. Taking them apart and bringing them back to life was just another way he connected with the world. David loved all animals, in particular dogs and his cat, Tigger.
He had a love for trucks and anything with an engine, a good glass of Red Cat wine or a rum and Coke, and a knack for spotting value where others didn’t. He was proudly frugal, but not cheap, he simply understood what things were worth. And if there was a good deal to be had, there was no way he was passing it up. When it came to tools, if you needed something, he had it, often more than one, or he could make exactly what was needed. And if you borrowed it, you made sure to bring it back; he always knew what he had. More than anything, David was someone you could count on. He was always willing to lend a hand, often without being asked, and never looking for recognition. He showed his love through what he did - fixing, building, helping, quietly making life better for the people around him.
He was predeceased by his father, Robert Williamson; his mother, Barbara Williamson; his stepmother, Clarene Williamson; and his stepbrother, Mike Falkenstein. He is survived by his sister, Sharon (Ken) Barchet; stepbrother, Rick (Melissa) Falkenstein; sister, Robbin (Scott) Bourque; stepbrother, Bob Falkenstein; sister-in-law, Kellie Burke-Falkenstein; sister, Lisa (Bill) Greider; and sister, Kathy (Darran) Achter; his cousins, Paula (Jim) Kuder; and JoAnne Ziervogel, and his beloved cat, Tigger. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Dan (Lauren) Barchet, Joe Barchet, Thom (Rachael) Barchet, Dean (Kyle) Bourque, Neal Bourque, Pam Barchet (Jay Clifford), Eva (Sean) Heffler, Kate (Gino) Scozzari, Carissa (Lyle) Weston, LeighAnn Achter (Joe Bolger), Danielle Falkenstein (Mitch Staebell), Molly Falkenstein, Annalyse Greider (Anthony Alonci), and Taylor Greider (Jeff Tonzi); and by his great-nieces and great-nephews, Holden Bourque, Layla Bourque, Zane Bourque, Maddie Barchet, Henry Bourque, Eleanor Bourque, Ben Barchet, Ember Weston, Landon Weston, and Ben Bolger.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no calling hours. Interment will be held privately with family. Arrangements are entrusted to New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Avenue. To share a memory of David or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below. If there’s something that needs fixing where he is now, we’re certain he’s already figured out a better way to do it.
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