David Bosnick

David Bosnick

David Bosnick Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Feb. 4 to Feb. 6, 2014.
Bosnick, David

David Bosnick was born and raised in Syosset, on Long Island, both places he cherished. He was the loving son of Betty and George Bosnick. He was a state champion wrestler, and won a football and lacrosse scholarship to East Carolina U. where he earned a bachelor's degree in literature—and nearly earned his degree in education. He received his Masters degree in English at SUNY Brockport, his PhD in Creative Writing at Binghamton University, and his MAT in English at BU. After many years owning and running independent bookstores in Binghamton and on Cape Cod, he became director of the bookstore at Colgate University and then a consortium director for three Pennsylvania college bookstores. Having been promoted to the point where he no longer had anything to do with the books or readers he cared about, he moved to his second career—and first inclination—as a teacher. For the past thirteen years he taught eighth grade English at West Middle School, and a yearly class in Literature and the Law for the Philosophy Department at Binghamton University. He co-chaired the drama program at West Middle School in Binghamton, writing and directing original plays. He also wrote short stories, essays, plays and poems, told amazing and memorable stories, and his work was published and anthologized. He performed countless acts of quiet kindness and generosity and always wore a three piece suit to teach his classes. He spoke his mind even in difficult circumstances but did it in such a humorous and whole-hearted way that few people ever took offense. David passed away in Belfast, North Ireland, where he was living for six months with his wife and daughter Lily. He died suddenly while working out in the gym at Queen's University in Belfast. Everyone who knew him was elevated by the acquaintance. He was a dedicated father, an adoring husband, a loving son, brother, uncle, friend, and he leaves behind his wife Liz of 30 joyful years; son Eli and daughter Lily, as well as sisters Susan and Eve, mother Betty, and numerous nieces and nephews, countless friends and grateful students. He was a man of exuberance, a man of faith, and he would exhort his students at the end of every class with the following "Go forth you angels of eighth, you wizards of West, you acmes, you geniuses-- get out there and light the world!". He will be interred at the Beth David Cemetery in Conklin, NY. A memorial service at West Middle School is also being planned. Please check the following for information and updates: Eli Bosnick at Facebook. Calling hours for shiva (mourning and paying sympathy calls) will be daily for a week starting Thursday, from 2-4 pm and again from 7-9 at the house of Beth and Paul Burch, 7 Briar Ct (between Crary and West End Ave). The funeral will be held at noon on Thursday, February 6 at The Chabad House Center at 420 Murray Hill Road in Vestal. Donations may be made to the 50 things I Wanted You to Know Fund, for Literature and Drama, at 1326 Riverside Drive, Apt 43, NYC NY 10033. Arrangements with the Ernest H. Parsons Funeral Home, 71 Main Street, Binghamton, NY. Please visit ParsonsFuneral.Com to offer your condolences.

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January 29, 2022

E Cohen posted to the memorial.

January 29, 2019

Maureen VanDusen posted to the memorial.

March 18, 2014

Victoria Hightower posted to the memorial.

E Cohen

January 29, 2022

As a middle school teacher David Bosnick was a giant. He changed the life of my nephew. He helped him become a lifelong reader.
His death was a loss to a family, certainly, and to a town, but also to an educational system. I cannot imagine he could ever be replaced. Seeing my nephew reading, which he does all the time, is a reminder of the power of a great teacher.

Maureen VanDusen

January 29, 2019

I still think of you David and I still pray for the repose of your soul everyday. You were one of the most interesting men I have every known and feel blessed that I had a chance to work with you and get to know you before you passed. I remember that you went to the Holy Land before you went to Ireland that year and that you had said when you visited the mountain of the beatitudes you had a profound experience that you shared with me on facebook. Within less than two months you were gone and I like to think that God was reaching out to you before you died to strengthen your faith because you were to leave this earth very soon and join Him in Heaven.

Victoria Hightower

March 18, 2014

Liz, Eli, and Lily, sorrow filled our hearts when we heard about David. He was the kindest person that I have ever known - ever!

God says that He is "nigh those who are of a broken heart," so I know he is near you all right now.

In Jeremiah, God said that "He knew him before he was in his mother's womb." Then in Psalm 139, we begin to realize that He actually knitted us together in our mother's womb.

So David is a spirit being (very sweet) that lived in the body that we all got to see and love. But his body was just his earth suit. He is an eternal spirit being who went back to be with God. So I find comfort that he is in our future and not just in our past.

May God's richest blessing of Peace be on you all! Sent with much love and admiration for a great man. Victoria and Tim

Steve Johnson

March 6, 2014

So sorry for your loss. David was larger than life. Some time in 1983-1985, Linda (wish I could remember her last name and let her know about his passing) and I did a semester-long project in a small-business consulting class working with David at the BookBridge. He was so busy, but he was so generous and kind to us. He was teaching us about business then, and life, even as we were trying to help him with business, and life, so I'm not surprised at all by the indelible mark he left on his students at West Middle. Peace be with you all.
- Steve Johnson, Riger Marketing Communications, Binghamton

Devra Gartenstein

February 24, 2014

Liz- So sorry to hear. David helped me through a terrible time in my life, offering desperately-needed kindness and attention. He was a magnificent human being who brought out the best in those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Steven Valliere

February 20, 2014

No words -

Rebecca Alexander

February 20, 2014

My deepest condolences to friends and family. How is it that I attended Syosset High School, and also attended Binghamton University, and got my degree in Philosophy, and yet never had David as a professor... I know he was a wonderful teacher and really well liked.

Elizabeth Cohen

February 16, 2014

When you looked at David you almost always saw him looking at Liz. She owned his heart. I have never seen anything quite like it. The whole family is knit with love, extraordinary, protected love. David was also my nephew Dillon's English teacher at Middle. He was tough and hard and asked probing questions of a sensitive boy who was at that very time losing his own father. David helped him write about it. And he did. he found the words for his grief, which in itself was healing. We think of David as a husband, father and business man. A teacher. But I know David was a writer, himself, and I will wait for the day when I get a chance to read his books. I am seriously waiting. A truly amazing and good man, in a era where that seems to somehow be rare. Am I right?

Ellen Rosenberg

February 14, 2014

The light of your life and a rock of mine

February 14, 2014

My dear Liz, Eli and Lilly ... I've struggled since the day David passed to find the right words. I found David to be one of the most generous, kind and loving people I've ever known. I saw these traits in him whenever he was around the Bookbridge ... the kindness with which he addressed those who worked there. I noticed that they were never employees but close friends who shared a special bond with him. This was so many years ago now, but I know that everyone who ever stepped in his path was embraced and enjoyed his warmth and friendship. How joyous that he remains in everyone's heart and mind as the good man that he was! We are all lucky to have known him! With love and prayers, Connie Barnes

Claudia Mills

February 14, 2014

Liz, Eli, and Lily, my heart is so filled with sorrow for your loss. I've come to know David mainly through the beautiful tributes posted by everyone since his death, where his larger-than-life energy, intellect, wit, kindness, and radiant spirit are abundantly clear. Holding all of you in my heart.

Amy Shapiro

February 13, 2014

Liz, Eli and Lily, My deep condolences. David packed the
equal of 120 years of living into his time here, but he had to leave far too soon. I have very fond memories of him and miss him.

cameronmihalko mihallko

February 12, 2014

Mr.Bosnick was one of the best teachers at WMS....

Heather Hartzell

February 12, 2014

Dr. Bosnick was a gifted, generous man. I will remember and be forever grateful to you, sir. Ryan is a better person, for having been in your class. My sincere condolences to the Bosnick family.

Michael Clark

February 8, 2014

Liz: Even though it has been some twenty years, I always remember David so very, very well. He seemed absolutely indomitable to me -- really larger than life in the very best way. I always, always had fun chatting and hanging with him, and I often thought of him at odd, unexpected moments. It's the true sign of a great spirit -- when they come to you at odd moments, but always full of life.

I am so very sorry for you loss, and for the loss all of those who have been touched by his great, great spirit must be feeling right now.

Myron Ernst

February 8, 2014

I didn't know David well, but what I knew of him, I greatly admired. I am much saddened.

Elisa Baskin

February 6, 2014

You always be my favorite teacher and it was an honor meeting you and being able to babysit Lily when I was in your eighth grade class...you will be truly missed.

Neal Berkey

February 6, 2014

Dr. Bosnick was a good man, a wise man, a tough man. He was a man who I was glad to know.

Deb and Gil Williams

February 6, 2014

We have such wonderful memories of David's Bookbridge in its days in the Vestal Plaza. David was dedicated to bringing the best to Southern Tier readers who wanted more than best sellers for their bookshelves. We also appreciate David's love of Shakespeare and the many ways he inspired his students at West Middle.

Mary and Chuck Haupt

February 6, 2014

Dear Liz,
We wish we could tell you in person how saddened we were to learn of David's passing. But this will have to do for now.
So from London, our sincerest sympathies to all of you.
Mary and Chuck

Elizabeth Cohen

February 6, 2014

Just the way he looked at her.... and loved them all, a tight embrace in those eyesm

Mark Harding

February 6, 2014

I had the pleasure of acting with Mr. Bosnick and Eli several years back. I also know him by reputation and as dedicated educator. My condolences to the family. I found him to be a very unique and engaging individual.

Jo-Ann Bagg

February 5, 2014

An incredible and unforgettable man! Memories from Bookbridge...
With Sympathy from the Bagg's of Binghamton and Bohemia, Long Island

Sylvia and Stephanie Horowitz

February 5, 2014

Dear Liz, Eli, and Lily,
Our deepest condolences for your loss. It's also our loss. He was a wonderful man. May you be comforted among the mourners of Zion.

Carol Hanscom

February 5, 2014

What a good, fine man and an extraordinary teacher. Our family was touched and changed forever by his brilliance. We grieve with you and for you.

David Newmark

February 5, 2014

Bosberg family,

Dave was one of my favorite people on this planet. He was unlike anyone Ive ever known and was such an incredible person. ALWAYS happy, and ALWAYS willing to help anytime he could.

I miss him so much and words cannot express how deeply sorry I am for your guys' loss.

You are all in my thoughts and prayers from the moment I wake up until I go to bed.

Love,

Dave Newmark

Mike Fiato

February 5, 2014

My deepest and most heartfelt sympathies go out to Liz, Eli, Lily, and the rest of David's family. David had an immeasurably positive impact on my life in ways I am still yet discovering. I carry with me many fond memories of the times we spent working and laughing (a lot) together during the Vestal Plaza Book Bridge years. I am so grateful for each and every one of those moments, and will remember him with a smile, and most assuredly an accompanying reflective laugh, for the rest of my days. Excelsior, David! Excelsior!

Ami Bar On

February 5, 2014

May you not know more sorrow

Mark Chernow

February 5, 2014

May David rest in peace.the great guy I grew up with in Syosset.

Penelope Harper

February 5, 2014

The world needs more men like David Bosnick, not fewer. Courageous, loving, dedicated, not afraid to speak truth to whoever needed to hear it. All my love to Liz and Lilly and Eli.

Tom Hill

February 5, 2014

David was my teammate with the Binghamton University rugby team. He was a good friend and an intregal part of forming that rugby team in the early 1980s. Later he coached the Tasmanian Devils RFC team for a number of years.

David will be missed.

February 5, 2014

On behalf of the Binghamton Teachers' Association, I offer our thoughts and prayers to David's family, friends, and students. We will miss his energy and passion for life.
Sincerely,
Linda Oryhon
BTA President

Maureen Van Dusen

February 5, 2014

David Bosnick gave so much of himself to the children he taught. He felt bad if they did not work up to their ability. He truly cared about the children. Since his passing I have listened to countless children express their grief over his death. Last year while I worked with the 8B team, I noticed how even difficult children loved him. We would laugh if we were in another classroom and we heard him blow his horn, or when the children were very unruly in the hallway, he would bark like a dog. It always brought us (children and aides) to laughter that was gut wrenching. May God bless him in eternity and may God comfort his family. May God comfort you with the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Anna Gilroy

February 4, 2014

I have been honored to be a member of Dr. Bosnick's drama club for the past 3 years and his student for the past 6 months. I have learned more in this short time then I ever have before. Dr. Bosnick's humor and kind-heartedness could make even the most boring topics interesting. I feel so lucky to have known him as long as I did. My prayers go out to his family in this hard time. I will miss him forever but I will always keep him in my heart.

The Rifenburg Family

February 4, 2014

Our prayers go out to Mr.Bosnick's family, friends, and students. He will be missed by all who has had the privilege of knowing him. RIP Mr. Bosnick.

Joan, Mark, Rachel & Joshua Bowers

February 4, 2014

Dave Bosnick will be missed not just by the Bowers Family, but by many. He was a fine man, he inspired you, made you think and most of all encouraged my daughter Rachel to write at a young age. We were very sad to hear of his passing and we will miss him very much. To Liz, Eli and Lilly we are thinking about you daily.

Carol D'Angelo

February 4, 2014

You were an amazing part of my life growing up! Thank you for being a part of that. A time I will always treasure and cherish.

Cheryl and Chuck Damico

February 4, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss.

Anna Gilroy

February 4, 2014

I've been a member of Dr. Bosnick's drama club for 3 years and his student for a short 6 months. I don't think I've ever learned more in my life. Dr. Bosnick is an inspiration and I'm so lucky to be able to count myself among his students. I will always miss him and always keep his lessons in my heart. My prayers go out to his family in this hard time. Rest in peace, Dr. Bosnick.

Elise White

February 4, 2014

I absolutely loved being Dr. Bosnick's student. He taught me so much more than any ELA teacher ever has, and has truly inspired me in countless ways. I will always remember his undying sense of humor as well as the inspiring words he shared with us. He really is one of the most inspiring people I've ever met.

Maureen Van Dusen

February 4, 2014

I had the pleasure of being part of the 8B team last year. I was amazed at David's vivacity and humor. I had one child tell me one day, "Mrs. Van Dusen, I know who your favorite teacher is, Mr. Bosnick." I said why? She went on to say,"you always laugh at everything he says." I will miss his bouncing walk and the way he made one feel at ease which I always marveled at for such an intelligent man. May God comfort all who mourn in Zion.

Julie Van Atta

February 4, 2014

What a loss. A beacon of light in these times. My heart goes out to all of you.
Julie Van Atta
East Middle School

Amy Diamond Barnes

February 4, 2014

I had the pleasure of working with David at Colgate. I always thought of him as being larger than life - I will never forget the joy he brought to all around him. I could always count on David to brighten an otherwise dull meeting with jokes, magic tricks and stories. I feel lucky to have known him.

Jeff Sabol

February 4, 2014

David will live on in my teaching and my everyday interactions with the world. His light will continue to shine thru us all who have been touched by his willingness to help others. Live life so that it outlives you.. He did this...

Linda Holmes

February 4, 2014

My sincere condolences to the Bosnick family. Though I did not know David well as a colleague, I sensed his fine qualities as a man and a teacher. He will be greatly missed.

February 4, 2014

Dear Bosnick Family,
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Bosnick. He was an incredible teacher who will be dearly missed. Thoughts and prayers are with you. The Ferranti Family (Gene, Lisa, John & Anthony)

Olivia Capozzi

February 4, 2014

Prayers for his family. My short 6 months with Mr. Bosnick as a teacher/director has left a huge impact on my life and I will never forget everything he taught me or the hilarious stories he used to tell. Thank you, Mr. Bosnick for the inspiration, knowledge and laughter you have given me. Rest in peace.

February 4, 2014

Dear Bosnick Family,
We are so sorry for you loss. My son had Mr. Bosnick this year. He was truly an amazing teacher and spirit. He will be missed dearly. Our son spoke kindly of him on a daily basis. We could see he touched and inspired our son. Our son is better because of MR. Bosnick. We were blessed meet him. Even though the time was so short, the impact of his great teaching will last a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Keith, Celia, and Logan Ulmer

Jonathan Ryan

February 4, 2014

I worked for David at the Colgate Bookstore. He was a wonderful man and he will be greatly missed. He taught me many things about life, business and family. I speak of him, and re-tell his stories often.
God Bless

Geralyn Yousuf

February 4, 2014

Mr Bosnick made my children better people, its that simple. The greatest tragedy is for the future students who will miss out on all that was David Bosnick.

Maria Evan

February 4, 2014

David Bosnick a brilliant, charming, witty rascal of a man. How do you say good bye? You don't. This delightful man will live in our hearts forever. We are all better people for knowing him. In my thoughts and prayers.

February 4, 2014

dear liz and family

as kindliness enkindleth kindliness,
so did the lamp of david's life light up those about him

with deepest sympathy on your untimely loss

david and linda mahler
tampa bay florida
glen allen virginia

Jimmy, Mary,Marcaesa, Jimmy,& Stavros Zervos

February 4, 2014

Dear Bosnick Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May he rest in peace and shine down upon all of you, as well as all of his students. Mr. Bosnick left a heartfelt everlasting impression on my 3 children. He was a man of honor who got the job done, and the point across. He did it with poise and excitement, which made the students want to learn. We will miss his great outlook on the world and his end of the year poems at West Middle School where he did infact, meomorize, and use every students name and something important about them in the poem. Rest well our friend.

Jeanne VanBuren

February 4, 2014

David's Haiku

Go Great David, you
Lived up to your name always
Never forgotten!

Jeanne Van Buren

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Sign David Bosnick's Guest Book

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January 29, 2022

E Cohen posted to the memorial.

January 29, 2019

Maureen VanDusen posted to the memorial.

March 18, 2014

Victoria Hightower posted to the memorial.