David E. Birsner

1944 - 2021

David E Birsner

Weymouth - David E. Birsner, 77, died peacefully at home in Weymouth, MA on January 2, 2021. He was surrounded by his wife and children. He was born January 2, 1944 in Floral Park, NY to Laurence and Elizabeth (Farley) Birsner.

David grew up in nearby New Hyde Park, NY. He was one of four sons: Laurence Birsner of Williston Park, who predeceased him in 2017, Red Birsner, of Carlsbad, CA and Donald BIrsner, most recently of Simpsonville, South Carolina, who predeceased him in November of 2020.

He graduated Herrick's High School going on to attend Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, NY where he met and then married the love of his life, Patricia (Patty) Bodo in 1966. They celebrated 54 years of marriage in July of last year. Together they joyously raised two children, David M Birsner, who resides in LaGrange, NY with his wife Rachel and children Grace and Owen; and Amy Birsner, who resides in Cohasset, MA with her husband Jesse Richards and sons Cooper and Paxton.

David is also survived by cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws who will remember him for his warm sense of humor and genuine interest in their lives.

David was a dedicated and decorated member of the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department. He spent 18 of his 21 years working as a detective, including time in the Juvenile Aid Bureau where he positively influenced the lives of countless children and families. He served many elected roles including President of the Police Benevolent Association and made numerous contributions during his career that can still be felt in the city today.

He also loved being a firefighter and was a volunteer member of the Fairview Fire Department for a number of years. He was a devoted parishioner of St. Peter's Church in Poughkeepsie and together he and Patty were active in Marriage Encounter and taught religious education to high school youth. In later years he went on to worship at San Antonio Church in Port Charlotte, FL, where he also served as facilities manager.

David was passionate about his family, his community, his yard, punctuality and the New York sports.

He was admired by friends, loved by family and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Plans for services in Poughkeepsie will be finalized later this year as circumstances with the pandemic dictate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Grace Smith House in Poughkeepsie, NY at gracesmithhouse.org