Obituary of David W. Parish
David W Parish, age 90, of Geneseo, died Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, NY. He was predeceased by his wife, Ava H. Parish in 1986.
He is survived by one son: David A Parish of Geneseo, several nieces, nephews and cousins, many friends and associates, and his loyal canine companion, Brody.
David was born October 3, 1932 in Niagara Falls, NY the son of Wheaton and Alma Kirkuski Parish. He was a US Army Veteran. David was a Graduate of Buffalo State College, he later earned 3 Master's Degrees in Education, History and Library Science. He was the Government Document Librarian at Milne Library on the Campus of SUNY Geneseo from 1967 – 1991. While at Milne Library, David authored several reference books of government documents and information. Upon retirement he was presented the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Librarianship. Following retirement he authored 8 titles on local history including the Geneseo series from 1789 – present. As co-founder of the New York State Government Document round table he was honored by the State Library Association.
David was a member of St. Paul's Methodist Church while in Niagara Falls and a longtime member of the Geneseo United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Geneseo Rotary Club and served as President in 1990-91. David was a recipient of the highest award in Rotary the Paul Harris Fellowship Award. He was also a member and Lodge Master of the Geneseo Masonic Lodge # 214 and served as State Director for the New York City Masonic Library. He was honored with the Sammy Lee David Peace and Freedom award in December 2020 by the Scottish Rite Masons. He served as District Deputy for the Livingston County Order of the Eastern Star. David was a member of the Livingston County Historical Society where he served as President for 8 years. He was designated the co-Livingston County Senior Citizen of the year 2020 with an award ceremony in Albany.
No prior calling hours. Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 1 PM in Temple Hill Cemetery in Geneseo with Lucille Kane officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Geneseo Rotary Club, P.O. Box 216, Geneseo, NY 14454.