In Memory of David Francis Palazzoli

Obituary

David Francis Palazzoli, born in 1949 in Utica, NY, was a devoted husband, loving father, fun-loving grandfather, and cherished friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Palazzoli; his daughters Kristin (Dan Tyrel) Palazzoli, Michelle (Patrick) Hopwood, and Teale (Francis) LaBarbera; and his adored grandchildren, Kathleen (Joseph Rush), Julia, Clara, and David Tyrel; Joseph and Annette LaBarbera; and John and Norah Hopwood. He was also the proud dog dad of Marley and Dylan.

Family always came first for Dave. He and Kathy were fixtures at every concert, sporting event, presentation, and pageant — whether in person or virtually — supporting not only their children and grandchildren but also nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

An avid musician, Dave was rarely seen without a guitar close at hand. His prized instruments stood ready around his home and camp, always inviting a song or a strum. His wide smile and generous heart touched everyone he met. He delighted in sharing photos of his family and his beloved wooden boats, which he lovingly restored.

Dave found joy and purpose in many places: sitting at the table of various boards he served on, curling at the Utica Curling Club, or manning the grill or stove. A lifelong lover of theatre and music, he performed with the Players of Utica and the Capitol Theatre in Rome and lent his talents building and painting sets for countless community and school productions.

His passion for all things mechanical led him from working as a medical technologist at St. Luke’s, to roles with empire Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, and USAir, and to Faxton as facilities manager before becoming a safety instructor and lean manufacturing expert. He never stopped learning or sharing his knowledge, and he faithfully lived his Catholic beliefs throughout his life.

Dave went to be with his parents, John and Angie; his in-laws, Jim and Marie King; and his brother, Rich Palazzoli, on July 6, 2025.

Calling hours will be on Friday, July 11, from 4:00-6:00 at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services at 13 Oxford Rd. New Hartford, NY 13413. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Mark’s Church on 440 Keyes Rd. Utica, NY on Saturday, July 12 at 10:30 AM with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mother Marianne’s Westside Kitchen/SJSP 702 Columbia St. Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be at the Funeral Home.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.