In Memory of David E. Clements III

Obituary

David E. Clements III, of New Hartford, passed away on Friday, October 3, 2025, in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by his family.

He was born April 28, 1955 in Ilion, NY, a son of David and Patricia (Keogh) Clements. He grew up working the family farm alongside his father, siblings, and cousins, where he gleaned many life skills and lessons that served him well throughout his life. Dave graduated from Frankfort High School in 1973. He married the love of his life, Kathleen (Kay) Davis, in 1986, and the pair welcomed their cherished twin daughters, Katherine and Kristen, in 1992.

Dave worked for General Electric until seizing the opportunity to go back to school to complete his Associates Degree in Civil Engineering Technology. Shortly thereafter, Dave began his long-term career with the NY State Department of Transportation, first in construction before working his way up to the Planning Office as a Civil Engineering Technician. He ultimately ended his career as a Senior Transportation Analyst, serving as the CHIPS and Rail coordinator for the region. Dave retired in 2020 after 27 years with the state, during which he formed several lifelong friendships. He was heavily involved in the NY State Association of Transportation Engineers (NYSATE), holding several roles including Statewide Director for the region. Dave was awarded Transportation Engineer of the Year in 2008 by NYSATE.

Dave enjoyed summers spent with the family camping in the Adirondacks, boating on various rivers and lakes, and traveling. He was a fantastic cook, and had several signature dishes that were beloved staples at extended family gatherings. Dave also enjoyed passing the time playing cards with friends and family. He was incredibly intelligent with a quick wit and excellent sense of humor. He was both the life of the party and a great listener. Dave was the most supportive father to his daughters in whatever they endeavored to do, and his granddaughter, Hannah, was his pride and joy. He was blessed with a wide network of friends from throughout the phases of his life, whom he loved dearly.

He is survived by his daughters Katie (Scott) DeBiase and Kristen Clements (Tyler Miller), his beloved granddaughter Hannah DeBiase, brother Dennis Clements, sister Mary Grace Clements (Chrissy Venable), sister-in-law Tami (Ritch) Selfridge, bother-in-law Ric (Lori) Davis, sister-in- law Nancy Davis and many beloved nieces and nephews including Laura Harding (who was a great source of support in Dave’s final months), A’nna (Otto) Isenberg, David Harding and Emma Clements. He was predeceased by his loving wife Kay, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Mike and Mary Anne Clements, his mother- and father-in-law Charles and Virginia Davis, and his brother-in-law Charlie Davis.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 4-6:30 pm at Friedel, Williams, & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. Dave’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon on Friday, October 10, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Church in New Hartford. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the scholarship fund in Dave’s wife’s memory at Oneida BOCES, PO Box 70 New Hartford, NY 13413. Please make checks payable to OHM BOCES, with “Kathleen A. Clements Scholarship Fund” on the memo line.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.