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David S. Gidley Cortez, FLDavid Sommers Gidley, 70, died suddenly on April 30, 2013 in Cortez, FL of an accidental drowning. Born November 2, 1941, David was born in Schenectady, NY, son of the late Harley J. Gidley and Barbara M. Gidley (Moynihan). He graduated from Niskayuna High School in 1960 and went on to obtain an appointment at the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point where he earned a bachelor of science degree in Marine Engineering in 1964. Following graduation, David sailed for two years as a Merchant Marine and achieved appointment in the U.S. Navy as an Ensign. He proudly wore his Kings Point class ring every day until the day he left this world. David worked for 19 years at the General Electric Company as a District Sales Manager in the Industrial Sales Division in Florham Park, N.J. Previous assignments with GE included sales manager in the Large Motor and Generator Department in Schenectady, NY, sales engineer in Farmington, CT, and Detroit, MI. After leaving GE, David worked for the Shrack Company and later for the Farr Company as VP of sales. David is survived by his four children, Barbara H. Drapola (Todd) of Phoenix, NY, Susan E. Arthur (David) of Baldwinsville, NY, Matthew P. Gidley (Kathy) of Atlanta, GA, and David C. Gidley of Baldwinsville, NY; and nine grandchildren. David is also survived by two sisters, Deborah Hogan (Wm. Norman) of Schenectady and Pamela Russell (Michael) of Sea Crest, NJ and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Harley J. and Barbara M. Gidley and by his brother, Peter A. Gidley. David was a sailor and a seaman. He loved the sea and was drawn to it all his life. He loved the outdoors and spent many enjoyable hours fishing and hiking in the Adirondacks. He retired to Cortez, FL and said it was the most beautiful place in the world and he would know as he traveled widely during his career. David desired no formal services. A memorial service for the family will be held at a future date. According to David's wishes, his ashes will be committed to the North Atlantic. Memorial contributions may be made in David's memory to the Kings Point Alumni Association USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation, PO Box 222011, Great Neck, NY 11022.
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Dave was my roommate at Kings Point and a good friend to me. Quite a shock to realize he is gone but the fond memories of him will continue with me forever
Martin Mason
May 27, 2013
Privileged to have been his classmate at the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
Mike Poynor
May 27, 2013
A good friend, we had manny laughts a good friend you will allwyays be, but yet you were like a father to me. allways in my thoughts.
May 18, 2013
A special friend you will allways be.You allways put a smiile on me. I will certinly miss you David.
Eugene O Reilly
May 18, 2013
"Every man's life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another." Ernest Hemingway
David had four beautiful children, traveled and experienced many places in the world, acquired knowledge voraciously and lived a good life. I miss knowing he is in this world.
Dina Fricioni
May 18, 2013
David's loss is heart breaking; we will always have many memories.
-Connie & Bill Hotaling, Baltimore
May 15, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with his family. The light has made him whole.
May 15, 2013
It's such a huge loss to the whole family. My prayer for you all is that you find peace. - Amy J. Hotaling
May 15, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. Dave was a good man. May God be with his family at this time.
Gene Stoddard
May 15, 2013
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