Mr. David M. Cerminaro

BUFORD, GA/UTICA – Mr. David M. Cerminaro, age 77, went home to the Lord on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. When the final stage of his journey came to closure, he was encompassed by his wife, children, and the love of all his family. Born in Utica on May 6, 1948, David was the son of the late Anthony F. Sr. and Florence L. (Dillon) Cerminaro. He attended Albany Street Elementary School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1966. As a teenager, while simultaneously courting his future wife, Ursula, David began his working career at PJ Green, Inc. aspiring to the position of computer operator. Dave would eventually go on to join the Air National Guard in Syracuse—a decision that would shape the course of his professional life. In 1978, he proudly became a serviceman in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base, where he rose through the ranks to become a SeniorMaster Sergeant in Communications. During his time there, he also had the opportunity to earn a degree from Columbia College, which was located on the base. During Operation Desert Storm, Dave volunteered for active duty. Ursula missed him deeply every single day and stayed connected with him as often as possible through the base computer. Dave was deeply committed to his role and the mission of his country. His unwavering dedication and impeccable work ethic earned him numerous commendations throughout his career. Over the course of more than 33 years, Dave served his nation with honor and distinction, eventually retiring on September 30, 2002. On April 27, 1968, Dave married his childhood sweetheart, the former Ursula Scotellaro. Their relationship was all-embracing; they shared a rhythm and bond that was a joy for others to witness. They never lost the original love and respect they discovered in their youth and remained a true example of an inspirational marriage to this very day. When the “in sickness” part of their wedding vows was tested, Urs became Dave’s main support system, giving him the strength and confidence to keep moving forward during his battles. As life’s opportunities unfolded, David and Urs relocated with their family to Clay, NY, in 1980, where they would reside for over two decades. David had always dreamed of moving south, and in 2002, he and Urs made their new home in Buford, GA, which enabled them to be closer to their children who had already made the beauty and lifestyle of the south their home. The sunshine and warmer climate allowed David and Urs to enjoy the outdoors year-round and for Dave, the best perk of all was NO SNOW! Dave honored his ancestry and was a family man through and through. He was his children’s hero in every sense. He took care of them and made countless sacrifices to ensure their needs were always met. Supportive and strong, he was steadfast in guiding them to stay on the straight and narrow. When his sons-in-law entered the picture, they too looked to Dave for advice and respected him as if he were their own father. His granddaughters gave Dave a whole new lease on life—he absolutely adored them, and in his eyes, they could do no wrong. He relished every moment spent with them, from their births through adulthood. The girls loved hearing stories of Dave’s life journey—learning who their Papi was before they knew him and how he grew into the man they cherished. Dave’s incredible sense of humor entertained and captivated them, bringing endless laughter—memories they will hold dear forever. David’s positive attitude and friendly nature earned him many lasting friendships. He was kind, helpful, and thoughtful, with a smile that was truly unforgettable. He knew how to love—and how to be loved. Throughout every phase of his life, David expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities he was given. Dave found much enjoyment travelling on cruises with his beloved wife and close friends. He was meticulous about the appearance of his home’s exterior—the lawn and landscaping were always groomed to perfection. He had some healthy competition from his late father-in-law, who was just as much a perfectionist. In earlier years, David and Urs owned a boat that they docked in Alexandria Bay, NY, where they made many cherished memories with friends. Dave also loved dancing to the tunes of the ’70s, especially to “Someone Like You” by Van Morrison with his forever dance partner, Urs. Sunday dinners were some of Dave’s most cherished times, complete with pasta and meatballs. Dave always raved about Ursula’s omelets which could never be replicated no matter how hard anyone else tried. He also spent time happily manning the barbeque grill, but he soon learned that his sons-in-law’s skills surpassed his own! David knew the Lord from childhood and was a devoted, practicing Catholic. He carried his faith into his marriage and into every aspect of his life. He also instilled in his children the importance of their Catholic faith and the value of attending Mass, having good morals, and making proper decisions. David was the kind of father who took his children to church, nurturing in them a love for the Lord—one that has been passed on to the next generation. His Christianity was sincere and steadfast, and he strived to follow the example of Christ. In recent years, David was a parishioner of St. Benedict Catholic Church in Georgia, where the atmosphere reminded him of the church of his upbringing—he truly felt at home there. He also found community at Prince of Peace Church, where he formed meaningful friendships and took purposeful joy in assisting with repairs and other needs. David repeatedly asked his children, sons-in-law, and granddaughters to take care of his beloved Ursula when he was gone—a request they are honored to fulfill with the same love and compassion he showed her throughout the years. David is survived by his wife, Ursula, who was his everything; his son, David M. Cerminaro, Jr.; daughters and sons-in-law, Reneé and Piero Ippoliti, and Melinda and Joseph Clark; adored granddaughters, Cecilia, and Giavanna Ippoliti; siblings and their spouses, Elaine and Robert Sereday, Anthony Jr. and Corinne Cerminaro, and Stephen and Kathleen Cerminaro; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; cousins, especially Mary Lou and Tom Allard; and his aunt and uncle, Joan and Tony Diruzzo. David was blessed to have amassed many friendships throughout his life, please know who you are, for that sacred time with you was so special to him. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John J. and Eda (Pardi) Scotellaro. The Cerminaro family extends their sincere gratitude to David’s Oncologist, Dr. Tanna, and the nurses and staff of Northeast Georgia Medical Center who were compassionate and outstanding in their care of David and his family. A special thank you as well for the comfort care provided by Northside Hospital Forsyth, they were sensitive and gracious. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in David’s honor may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation online at https://t2t.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend David’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery where full Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Air Force.

Mr. David M. Cerminaro

May 6, 1948 - July 29, 2025