David Songer

1936 - 2023

David Songer

Orange, MA - David L. Songer, 86, of Spring Hill, Florida died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on January 22, 2023.

He was born in Orange, Mass August 18, 1936, the son of Ellsworth and Ruth (Smith) Songer. David grew up in Orange, graduated from Orange High School in 1954, East Coast Aero Tech in 1955, and worked for United Airlines at JFK Airport (then Idlewild) in January 1956 as an aircraft mechanic. He was drafted into the army in February of 1959 as a Specialist 4th Class. He worked as an instructor of Aircraft Engine Fundamentals & Troubleshooting in Fort Eustis, VA. When David's stint in the army was over, he returned to United Airlines at Kennedy Airport until his retirement in October 1995.

David was a long-time member of the Central Mass Steam, Gas & Machinery Association, serving as its president from 2001-2003. He was a self-taught machinist, a talented carpenter, and an ardent collector and restorer of antique machinery and gas engines. His other hobbies were fishing, camping, traveling, and boating on the river.

David was a former Planning Board member, Waterfront Park Committee member, and Putnam Hall Restoration Committee member.

He leaves his wife of 64 years, Sally E. (Conners) Songer, a daughter, Kelley Silberberg and husband David of Hawaii, daughter, Kerry Songer and Steven Thompson, of Florida, son, Kyle Songer and his wife Gina Grigsby of Florida. Several grandchildren; Blake Silberberg, Tyler Silberberg, Rachel Grigsby, Paige Songer, and Austin Karp, great-grandson Hunter Elin; brother Ken and wife Lucille, sister Karen and many nieces and nephews.

According to David's wishes, there are no services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Orange High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.