David James Pruner

Wappingers Falls, NY - David James Pruner, age 81, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.
David was born on June 14, 1944, in Sharon, Connecticut, and was always thrilled to have been born on Flag Day. He was predeceased by his parents, Cory and Ann Pruner.
He married the love of his life, Patricia (Nicolato), at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Dover Plains, NY. They built a life in East Fishkill, where they have shared their home for over 50 years. Their motto, "It's you and me, Pruner," sustained them through every challenge in life.
David attended Dover Plains High School and proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1962 to 1966. He was stationed aboard the USS Valley Forge aircraft carrier and was offshore when the Vietnam War began. He wore his U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran hat wherever he went and loved interacting with those who thanked him for his service. His military service was a source of deep pride, and he was honored to participate in the Honor Flight for Vietnam Veterans to Washington, D.C., alongside his son Bryan on April 13, 2024. He also cherished his lifelong friendship with his Navy buddy, Dick Cole of Colorado Springs, CO.
A member of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church in LaGrangeville, David was also a dedicated employee of IBM, where he worked as a Financial Analyst for 30 years. After retirement, he worked at Dutchess Golf & Country Club simply to be outdoors.
Dave was a member of the ASA Umpire Association for 15 years and served for 5 years on the Town of Wappingers Little League Association (Team Radio Shack), coaching his sons with great pride. He was also a lifetime member of the Chestnut Ridge Rod & Gun Club.
His niece described him as someone with "dry wit" and a "gruff warmness." If he became impatient, we'd just say, "Settle down, Zio Dave," and that would do the trick. He loved hunting, bowling, and attending sporting events and concerts with his sons. A loyal fan, he cheered for the Boston Red Sox and the Washington Redskins. Above all, he and Pat hardly missed a moment to support their grandchildren, attending every event they could.
He loved Reuben sandwiches, taking selfies with family, listening to the oldies (especially in the hospital), relaxing in his favorite recliner (where many a dog sat beside him), and tending a beach-like garden full of flowers in the backyard, complete with his homemade lifeguard chair reminiscent of their times in Rhode Island. One of his favorite traditions was receiving a Hallmark Snowman every Christmas (he had them all). The attic was filled with every holiday decoration imaginable, which he tirelessly brought down each year to fill the house with spirit until he could no longer do so.
In addition to his beloved wife Patricia, David is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law: Bruce and Colleen (Buckley) Pruner, Bryan and Wanda (Glover) Pruner, and Brent and Francene (Gallo) Pruner. He is also survived by five loving grandchildren: Christopher (Michelle), Samantha (Dexter), Sarah, Jillian (Hans), and Lauren; and three great-grandchildren: Joseph, Elizabeth, and Samuel Pruner. He leaves behind his brother, Cory Pruner Jr., and his niece, Rellie Pruner, along with several other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, NY, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Kateri Catholic Church, 1925 Route 82, LaGrangeville, NY. Entombment will follow at St. Peter's Mausoleum in Poughkeepsie, NY.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered love and support during this difficult time, his doctors, the nurses (especially Luis), and anyone who brightened his day. Special thanks to Fr. Joseph McLafferty, who came to see Dave at home with prayers and blessings. He always felt better after each visit. To all the friends and family who gave him comfort simply by being there, he was always happiest in your company.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Kateri Catholic Church, 1925 Route 82, LaGrangeville, NY 12540. Please visit his Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.