David George Salak

David George Salak, 78, passed suddenly at home on March 23, 2025, in Hagaman, NY, where he had been a lifelong resident. The son of George and Jane (Fisher) Salak, he graduated from AHS in 1965. Dave was employed for 35 years at the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance as a Senior Audit Clerk before enjoying his 23-year retirement.
Dave is survived by his wonderful wife of 40 years, Diana (Dee) Lather Salak and siblings: Deborah (Glenn) Marek, Gregory Salak, MaryBeth (Bruce) McDonald, stepmother, Catherine Salak, nephews, Aaron (Emily) Tesiero, Daniel (Alysha) Renwick, Matthew and Christopher Renwick, niece Makenna Renwick, grandnieces Sofia and Sarah Tesiero, goddaughter Jennifer Mann, relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his brother Dean.
Small in stature as a youth, he developed a big and generous heart, fierce determination, and was a tireless competitor at everything. He loved sports, from playing baseball to bowling for AHS and scoring 4 perfect 300 games throughout his life. He played cards, darts, horseshoes, pool and golf. He thrived on speed, whether riding his motorcycle or burning rubber in his souped-up car. His favorite uncle encouraged him to become a jockey, which he never did, but that began his passion for horse racing. Saratoga Racetrack was Dave's "Summer Place to Be", Where he remained a fixture in his "spot". Dave was a consummate fan of the Giants both football and baseball, which began when his dad took him to the Polo Grounds in the 1950's. He was also a diehard NY Rangers fan. He was an avid reader, a bigger-than-life personality, and a great friend, easily recognized by his distinctive voice, biker boots, and long hair with a headband.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Rose & Hughes Funeral Home, 200 Church St., Amsterdam, NY. A Prayer Service will follow at 7:00PM Monday at the funeral home. Private interment will be later in the spring in Broadalbin Union Rural "Union Mills" Cemetery. Please visit Dave's tribute at www.roseandhughesfh.com In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New Yor, NY 10036 or the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.