David William Morgan

David W. Morgan, 92, of Corning, NY passed away at home on January 17, 2025. David was born in Campbell, NY on December 17, 1932 to John T. and Ella C. Morgan. He graduated from Campbell Central High School in 1950. David was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War and served in Alaska, experiencing bitter temperatures that earned him membership in the 50 Below Club. After his service, he returned to Corning, NY and Corning Glass Works where he worked as a lab technician before attending Rochester Institute of Technology where he received an Associates Degree in Electrical Technology. He spent four years as an electronic technician at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY. Returning to Corning in 1960, David took a position as lab technician with Corning Glass Works, earned a BSc in Mathematics and Physics from Elmira College and became a glass chemist.
David's Corning Incorporated career saw him earn thirty-two US Patents in the field of glass science and products. He worked closely with scientists at Corning's Sullivan Park lab and at Corning's facilities in France and Brazil. He was a generous collaborator, sharing his time and knowledge with co-workers. David's professional life was productive in the technical advances he made and for the strong working relationships he built with his colleagues. He retired from Corning in 1994.
David did not relax after retiring. Having run four marathons in the 1980s, he began running international races starting with Athens, Greece in 1996.
David met Mary Wenck in Corning. They soon became life partners and travelled the world running marathons and exploring distant countries. The marathons ranged as far afield as Africa, Antarctica, China, Norway, New Zealand and Nepal. David and Mary each are members of the Seven Continents Marathon Club. David ran the Boston Marathon nine times.
David was predeceased by his parents, his brothers John and Harold and his wife Lucille. He is survived by his son Thomas, sister Eleanor Stewart, several cousins, nieces and nephews and his life partner Mary Wenck.
By David's request, there will be no funeral service. If you wish to provide a tribute to David, please donate to Farm Sanctuary (farmsanctuary.org).
David Morgan was a family man, scientist, athlete, friend and a caring, compassionate and loving person. He is sorely missed.