David A. Knopka

Mr. David A. Knopka, age 50, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, with his loving family by his side. Born in New Hartford on April 15, 1959, David is the son of Shirley J. (Smith) Knopka and the late Bernard A. Knopka, Sr. He was raised and educated locally. On August 30, 1980 he married the former Diana D. Williams with whom he shared 28 years in a loving union founded on mutual love and respect. For many years, David worked in the maintenance department of several local companies until the time of his illness. A giving and considerate man, David always thought of other’s needs before his own. He had a stern demeanor but was gentle of heart and always gave in. Family was his priority and he was even known to his children’s friends as “Uncle David”. He enjoyed the tranquility of being outdoors just as he liked a quiet night watching television with his family. David is survived by his wife, Diana; his mother, Shirley; his daughters and their families, Denise Knopka and Christopher Irizarry, and Dana Knopka and David Wells; and his son, David Knopka, all of Utica. He also leaves his grandchildren, Elianna Irizarry, Mia Irizarry, and Sophia Wells; his brothers and sister-in-law, Bernard, Jr. and Anna Knopka of Frankfort, and Christopher Knopka of Utica; many nieces, nephews, especially Ryan Williams, who was like a second son to David; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles; and many brothers and sisters-in-law and their families who were very special to David. He will also be missed by his cherished friends, Edwin Gil and David Jackson. He was predeceased by his brother, Timothy Knopka. The family is grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston for all the care and attention shown not only to David but also to his family. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Interment will take place in Holy Trinity Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

David A. Knopka

April 15, 1959 - May 16, 2009