David Curtis Vilas

David Curtis Vilas, 87, of Pittsford, NY passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 30th, 2023. He was born in Madison, Wisconsin to the late Joseph Wroe Vilas and Frances Johnson Vilas. David grew up on the shores of Lake Mendota, where he found his lifelong passions of sailing and fishing. He went to the University of Wisconsin High School, and during his time there, he ran track and played football and basketball. He attended Ripon College where he met his college sweetheart Anne, and he then graduated from the University of Alabama.
In 1958, David and Anne married and moved to Upper Montclair, NJ. They later settled in Rochester, NY in 1966. Here he enjoyed volunteering for his community by serving on the Vestry at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, and on the boards of the Allendale Columbia School and the Genesee Valley Club. He was a member of the SAR, served in the Air Force Reserves and was proud to be the great grandson of Civil War General N. Martin Curtis.
During his career David worked as a manufacturer's sales representative for several different companies as well as his own, and he then worked in real estate upon retirement.
David was a devoted and loving husband and father to his two daughters, and he adored visits with his four grandchildren. Later in life David was lucky to meet Cheri, who was a loving companion and brought him much joy.
David loved to spend time with family and friends. He enjoyed golfing with his weekly men's group, cherished his annual fishing trips to Canada and his winter trips to Catamount in the North Country. David's joy of being on the water was evident as he loved fishing on Sodus Bay, sailing in regattas at Pultneyville and his yearly trips to Cape Cod Bay. He was a big fan of the Buffalo Bills, enjoyed bird watching, gardening, and spending time with his Westie dogs.
Dave was predeceased by his wife, Anne, his parents, and his sister, Sally Vilas Whiffen. He is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth (Alex) and Meg (Mark); his grandchildren, Charlotte, Andrew, Eliza and James; and his nephew, Michael and niece, Kate who affectionately called him "Unc" and many other nieces and nephews. After Anne's passing, David was fortunate to have many friends and neighbors to help him with day-to-day life, and we are so grateful to all of them for their care and compassion. We would like to acknowledge and thank Beverly, Angela, Luz, Estella, Amanda, Elise, Alexis, Lena, Heidie, Loretta, and Kelly.
There will be a celebration of Dave's life, date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Paul's Episcopal Church of Rochester or Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester.