Michael M. Davis

Michael Malchoff Davis Sr., a dedicated public servant and educator passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 9:11pm, with his life partner Margaret Kastnerby his side. Born on August 18, 1966, to Malchoff and Elaine Davis, Mike was a lifelong resident of Cleveland, New York.
A passionate advocate for education and safety, Michael earned a Master's degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Engineering from SUNY ESF. His career reflected his diverse expertise and commitment: he served as a professor of Wood Products Technology at SUNY Morrisville, taught Heavy Equipment at Herkimer-Madison-Oneida BOCES, and worked as an Independent Forester. In recent years, Mike integrated his skills and passions through his roles as a Safety Consultant and Accident Investigator for the Wood Products Industry at W. J. Cox Associates, and as a State Fire Instructor for the NYS Department of Homeland Security, both of which he considered dream jobs. For over 40 years, he was a dedicated volunteer with the Cleveland Fire Department, serving as Deputy Chief and EMT. His commitment to his community, where his family has resided for over 125 years, was further exemplified by his role as the current Supervisor of the Town of Vienna and a town councilman before that. Mike poured his heart into everything he did, always ready to lend a hand, day or night.
Mike is survived by many friends, colleagues, and family members, including his partner Margaret Kastner; his mother, Elaine Davis; his sister, Debra Everson; and his brother, Jimmy Davis. He is also survived by his daughter, Ashley Sponaugle (Kory); his son, Michael Davis Jr.; his grandsons, Elias and Wyatt Sponaugle, whom he lovingly called his "little men"; his nieces, Elena and Tasha Araya; Margaret's daughters, Sandra and Karly; his special loves Lillian and Sawyer including the entire House family; and local celebrity, Wally the Fire Dog. He was predeceased by his father, Malchoff Davis, and his sister, Gloria.
Mike would want everyone to look for opportunities to help those around them whenever possible. He was a deep thinker and a problem solver. His heart was full of love for his family, all fire departments, his community and especially children and animals. He touched countless lives and will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Cleveland Fire Department, Cleveland
Calling hours will be from 10am-12pm with a service to follow immediately at the Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Michael M. Davis, please visit our floral store.