David Joseph Bahan Jr.

1943 - 2023

Bahan, David Joseph Jr.
MECHANICVILLE - David Joseph Bahan Jr., 79, the son of the late David and Frances Cudmore Bahan, died on January 19, 2023, of congestive heart failure.
Born in 1943, he graduated from St. Paul's Parochial School in Mechanicville, LaSalle Institute in Troy, and Siena College in Loudonville. Dave worked as a claims adjuster for several insurance companies including Hartford in Albany and Glens Falls, and Baslow and Levin in Utica, before starting his own company as a public adjuster, specializing in property damages.
Dave married his wife, Kay Cutkomp, in 1976. The couple lived in Colonie for several years before moving to Mechanicville to help his mother, Frances Bahan. After his mother died, Dave obtained guardianship of his handicapped sister Mary Kay, and he watched over her every day.
Dave also helped his wife Kay with her craft business, loading and unloading his Bronco, then setting up a booth at craft fairs. Kay arranged her clay sculptures, then Dave sent her for breakfast while he rearranged the booth, where he served as a salesman. One year he went out alone to 10 craft shows while his wife was working on orders at home.
Dave joined Mechanicville-Stillwater Elks Lodge #1403 in 1983. A few years later he was elected exalted ruler of the lodge. He worked as the lodge secretary, collected donations for charity and helped with the lodge newsletter. Later, Dave held the posts of state vice president and district deputy grand exalted ruler. He was instrumental in acquiring the old Grand Union warehouse on Park Avenue in Mechanicville to give the lodge more space.
Dave and his parents always had dogs as pets. After he married, Dave liked to take Oliver the Shih Tzu for rides in the car.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Mary Katherine; his uncle, Thomas (Suzanne) Cudmore; his aunt, Honor (Edward Sr.) Doyle; and his cousin, Ted Doyle. In addition to his wife, Kay, Dave is survived by his cousin's wife, Eleanor Doyle, her daughter, Megan Doyle, her son, Daniel (Christy) Doyle and their families; and his nephew, Alex Jaeger.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 25, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, 39 S. Main St, Mechanicville. At 11:30 a.m., the Benevolent and Protective Order Elks will perform their ritual for a departed member to conclude the services.
For directions and to leave condolences and/or share memories and photos, please visit www.devito-salvadorefh.com.