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David Waterman Obituary

David E. Waterman
Westmoreland
David E. Waterman, 41, of Westmoreland, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 18, 2012, while in Buffalo, NY. David was born July 27, 1971, in Utica, the son of William and Phyllis (Bernhardt) Waterman. He was raised and educated locally and graduated from Mohawk Valley Community College. David was a registered nurse with University Hospital. On August 7, 1998, David married Donna Vatalaro, sharing a brief, yet meaningful union of 14 years, as well as 7 years prior to their marriage. David was a former competition powerlifter, even holding several world records. He is a member of St. John the Evangelist Church in New Hartford. David is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Waterman, Westmoreland; his cherished daughters, Gianna Esterina and Kali Marie Waterman; his parents, William and Phyllis Waterman, Westmoreland; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Cynthia and John M. Smith, Deansboro, Kathleen and Keith Brittell, New Hartford, and Jessica and Peter Pagliaro, Sauquoit; nine nieces and nephews, Tyler, Steven and Hans Smith, Kevin, Kayla and Kyle Britell, and Angelina, Pietro and Giovanni Pagliaro; and aunts and uncles, Neil and Margaret Waterman, Whitesboro, Mary Milioto, Syracuse, Mark Waterman, Yorkville, and Margaret Waterman, Utica. He is also survived by his father-in-law, Richard B. Vatalaro, Holland Patent; a sister-in-law, Dawn Vatalaro, Utica; a brother-in-law, Richard B. Vatalaro, Jr., Holland Patent; and a brother-in-law and sister-in-law and their family, Michael and Kate Yutzler, Alec and Ashley, Clinton; as well as by many dear lifelong friends and close coworkers. David is predeceased by his grandparents, Rosemary and David Bernhardt; as well as several aunts and uncles; by his mother-in-law, Katherine Vatalaro; and his grandparents-in-law, Esther and Edmund Krowicki. Mr. Waterman's Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, August 24, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Annunciation, Clark Mills, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in Kirkland Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Heintz Funeral Home, 10 East Park Row, Clinton, Thursday evening, from 4-7 p.m. Online memorial and guestbook available at: www.heintzfuneralservice.net
David Waterman

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Published by The Observer-Dispatch from Aug. 20 to Aug. 23, 2012.

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Dana Lonis

August 16, 2021

Still miss him, had an incident this weekend that reminded me of him.

Dave Leonbruno

January 5, 2021

I just want to say Dave I miss you.we became friends instantly & he taught me alot about weight training. But beyond that he was there for me when times got tough. A very rare person, sometimes life is just not fair. I feel I was robbed of a great friendship

JP O

August 14, 2020

Dave was a good man and a kind and caring person. He would give you the shirt off of his back. There aren’t many guys like him around that would do for others unconditionally. May he rest in peace.

James

December 7, 2018

Dave was a good man, who cared about others and was always willing to lend a hand. I had the fortune of knowing him until I moved from NY in 1999. He was a true inspiration, and helped me change the way in which I lived, adopting a healthy lifestyle. Our community has lost a special person. I still talk to others about his influence on my life (again today). God bless Donna and the girls.

April 7, 2016

a huge fan of dave, powerlifting, dave was the best 181lb bencher in the world, he was featured on the cover of powerlifting usa magazine, google powerlifting usa and you will see. not only was dave an accomplished powerlifter,but he was a registered nurse! dave was a very intelligent man and could have done anything he put his mind to.i felt as a fan of dave i would keep this guest book open permanently. god bless dave's wife, children and family. andy

matt hardiman

August 27, 2012

our thoughts & prayers go out to the entire waterman family. god bless you all

Stacie Ricci

August 27, 2012

Donna,
I can't find the words to say. We want you to know how deeply sorry we are and I hope God gives you strangth to help you your girls will be fine because your a wonderful mother. Your in our prayers.

Ron & Stacie Ricci

August 25, 2012

Dave was such a great person! I loved working with him when he came to the ER to help us out. He will truly be missed by his Upstate family!

Jim Swan

Janese Spatuzzi

August 24, 2012

TO Donna and Family,
I'm so very sorry for your loss, your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Dave was a great nurse and a great man.

Martha Miller

August 24, 2012

To my family in N.Y. You are all in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.

David Johnson

August 24, 2012

To Donna and your family, thank you so much for lending us Dave. In the few short years I worked with him I learned things that I will be able to use my entire career. He wasn't just a SWAT nurse though he was a great guy to talk to and be around. I will truly miss him.

Kelly Rossi

August 24, 2012

Dear Donna...sooo sorry ......Just found out about Dave's passing...He was a wonderful man

mark swatling

August 24, 2012

Dave was a great guy and great competitor.
RIP my friend!

Lorrie White

August 24, 2012

Donna was so shocked to hear about Dave! Life is just not fair at times , but I know you have a lot of great memories.Your two babies will get you through this.So So Sorry....

Kim and Norm Davis

August 24, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Waterman family.Sorry for your loss.

Vincent Tropea

August 23, 2012

Dearest Donna and those beautiful girls, I cannot begin to express the sorrow that I feel for all of you, but as you told me a few short months ago...."He is in a better place". God needed Dave to do more important work for him, and be assured he is and will always watch over you and your beautiful daughters. Keep us near to your heart and please visit us often. We need you in our lives! We love you all. Vinny

Tracey Koss

August 23, 2012

I had the priviledge and the pleasure to work with Dave at Faxton. He was a great nurse, friend and an even better father and husband who had a heart of gold. He will be missed by all that have been touched by his kind heart. Keeping his family in my thoughts and prayers.

Shelly Forrester (Simonelli)

August 23, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Waterman family at this very difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.

Stephen & Jennifer Sabino

August 23, 2012

Kathy and Family we are very sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Angela (Fancher) Mooney

August 23, 2012

It is sad to lose one of our dear classmates. Dave "Ox" was a great guy. I still remember the day seeing him in his student nurses' uniform and telling him he was too big and burly for nursing. we laughed. had some good time conversing and know he was a sweet guy who blessed many both professionally and personally. I am truly sorry to Donna and the girls as well as his parents and the whole family for this sudden and tragic loss. My prayers and love go out to you all.

August 23, 2012

KATHY AND FAMILY,
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME.
DEBBIE WICKHAM (DEPTOLA)

Ricky Lawrence

August 23, 2012

RIP Dave

Rick Lawrence

August 23, 2012

Rest In Peace Dave. You were an iconic athlete and a wonderful friend. You were a real class act and I will miss you so much. Our love and prayers to your family. Much love buddy, Ricky

David Waldas

August 23, 2012

RIP Dave, my condolences to his family. I was just thinking about the old Westmo days. You will be missed Ox! It's nice to read about everyone's memories of Dave. I mostly knew him in elementary and middle school and always remember how tough he was and yet so kind.

Melissa Hartnett

August 23, 2012

Our deepest condolences go out to the Waterman family in your time of loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Christine (Wnuk) Lindquist

August 23, 2012

Kathy, my thoughts and prayers go out to your and your family. RIP Dave

cornell maye

August 23, 2012

Dave Waterman I watch move from the local stage of Utica NY to the national spot light. When Dave walked into my gym little did I know he would become one of the best powerlifters in the world! Yes I said world! Goggle his weight lifting accomplishments.Memories of Dave will last forever he is in the record book. I loved that kid, he will be truly missed by all. May he RIP!

Fred Mazza

August 23, 2012

So very sorry for your loss.

Eric DeMarche

August 23, 2012

Dave was agreat guy and this is a huge loss!! I havent seen Dave in many years. I did work briefly at Upstate and saw his name and thought.. wow I gotta get ahold of OX, and never did. Take this time to call an old friend and say "hey I was thinking about you" ...I wish I did... My prayers go out to Daves family RIP buddy!!!

sharan phillip

August 22, 2012

It was a pleasure working with Dave in the Albany Med S.I.C.U

Dana Lonis

August 22, 2012

Dave Waterman, RN, CCRN, SWAT Nurse , the credentials that define an admirable career. Dave Waterman devoted huband and father, family man and friend, the ideals that define the man. Donna
my heart aches for you, your husband showered us with his love of career leaving a profound mark on the profession and he was so proud of you and your girls. I can't tell you how I wish you were all at Panther Lake right now, I am so sorry.

August 22, 2012

Dave had helped us out with very I'll patients many times on 8G. We will miss him.

Michelle R.Abernethy RN

Mark Swire

August 22, 2012

Cindy and family so sorry for your loss your in our prayers

Sharon Smith

August 22, 2012

So very sorry for your loss. MY heart goes out to you.

Tina Anderson-Bates

August 22, 2012

Dave was an exceptional person who made a difference to many in his short life. I will always remember him when he first started his nursing career in Faxton. He was an excellent nurse who had a heart of gold and was always willing to go the extra mile. Donna I am so sorry for your loss. You and your daughters are in my prayers.

Mike and Barb Pellegrino

August 22, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to the Waterman and Vatalaro families....Peaceful rest to your most beloved David and our wish of peace to you all as well.....

Giovanna RN, CRNA

August 22, 2012

Donna,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dave will truly be missed! The "old-time" SICU weekend crew will always have you in our thoughts and prayers.

Tammy Kenneally

August 22, 2012

To the entire family of Dave,I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. R.I.P Dave

The Marchitelli's

August 22, 2012

Dawn V and the entire Waterman family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our family is praying for your family at this time. May DAve Rest in Eternal Peace.

Sara Giorgi

August 22, 2012

I had the honor of working with Dave when I was a resident at upstate. He was an amazing nurse and a great teacher. I know many of my fellow anesthesia residents felt the same. We always felt a little safer when Dave was around, he had our back and most importantly had the patients best interest in mind always. I will always remember him, and how he spoke with such love of his wife and his girls. The upstate family lost a great member of their team He will be sadly missed but warmly remembered. I am so sorry for your loss.

Alisha & Matt

August 22, 2012

Dave, you were such a wealth of knowledge to all you came in contact with. So many prayers with Donna and your girls. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to work along side you. Rest Sweetly.

1988 Bulldogs

August 22, 2012

August 22, 2012

Our daughter Jenna goes to school with Gianna and when my brother told me the news it was so sad. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Waterman family at this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jennifer and Sean Landry

Jenn Koz

August 22, 2012

Dave you were passionate about everything in your life from Donna, your daughters, nursing, teaching and being a great friend. I'll miss you so much.

Kim Gleason

August 22, 2012

My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to all of you in Dave's family. He was an outstanding nurse that was a calming presence on the worst night of my nursing career and I was always remember and be grateful for him.

August 22, 2012

Rip

Sandra Martin

August 22, 2012

Dave was an exceptional nurse and intelligent man. He is one of the swat nurses I would call when I needed some help with a patient. He certainly taught me a lot and will not be forgotten. I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, father, son, brother. He will always be with you in your memories heart and spirit. He will live on within all of us. He touched so many lives. RIP Dave

Janice Roth

August 22, 2012

Phyllis -

I was so shocked and saddened by the news of David's passing. May his memory of your time together always bring you comfort. Heaven now has another angel - David was a wonderful, loving person and will be missed by many.

Janice.

Kendall Cowles

August 22, 2012

My sympathy for the Waterman family during this terrible tragedy. Dave was a well respected nurse who provided help and guidance to myself as well as many others. He went out of his way to do what he thought was right and he will be remembered and missed.

Dawn Vatalaro

August 22, 2012

I love you Brother-In-Law ... Life just never seems to give us enough time. RIP Dave xoxo

melissa bosco

August 22, 2012

Dave.. reflecting on HS days are filled with smiles and laughter. Dave and his man posse ,ken,jim,todd,greg,rich... what a tight bunch of guys. All happy memories. Dave was truly gift of life his personality touched so many people over the years. My heart goes out to his little girls they should always know they had the "best daddy in the world".. Deepest heartfelt sympathy for his Mrs the love of his life..

George Retschle

August 22, 2012

I hadn't seen Dave in the many years since I moved away from NY, but I vividly remember Dave's big smile and postive attitude back in the day at the Solid Gold Fitness Center. RIP Dave and my sincere condolences to Dave's family.

Tamara Roberts

August 22, 2012

Donna, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave was an exceptional nurse and it was an honor to work with him.

Diane Kraeger-Primarolo

August 22, 2012

Dave was a super positive, great guy! I have so many great memories of Dave and the boys and all the fun we had back in the day! God bless your family and all the beautiful memories you have blessed them with. God rest your soul.

Jason Phelps

August 21, 2012

The world has lost a truely great man, an amazing nurse, and most importantly a dedicated, and loving father. I remember like it was yesterday July of 98 sitting in nursing orientation with Dave and Donna. I remember working with Dave at faxton, hanging out at the finger bullet and all the bench press competitions we attended. More recently I was speaking to Dave in the hallway, he was glowing as he spoke about his girls, how he loved watching them grow, and become their own little ladies. He spoke about how special they were to him, and how great his life had turned out . I know from the years of being friends with Dave that his family ALWAYS came first. Despite his strong build, deep rough voice, he was a big softy, and I always told him I could see through his front. Dave I cherish the memories we shared, deep talks about nursing, and not so deep talks about life and the "joys" of nursing. I'll never forget u buddy, and to Donna and the kids, if there is ever any thing Big or small Ican do to help you guys out, please don't hesitate to call. I hope that time eases your pain, be assured Dave is watching out for you guys.

Jason Phelps

August 21, 2012

The world has lost a truely great man, an amazing nurse, and most importantly a dedicated, and loving father. I remember like it was yesterday July of 98 sitting in nursing orientation with Dave and Donna. I remember working with Dave at faxton, hanging out at the finger bullet and all the bench press competitions we attended. More recently I was speaking to Dave in the hallway, he was glowing as he spoke about his girls, how he loved watching them grow, and become their own little ladies. He spoke about how special they were to him, and how great his life had turned out . I know from the years of being friends with Dave that his family ALWAYS came first. Despite his strong build, deep rough voice, he was a big softy, and I always told him I could see through his front. Dave I cherish the memories we shared, deep talks about nursing, and not so deep talks about life and the "joys" of nursing. I'll never forget u buddy, and to Donna and the kids, if there is ever any thing Big or small Ican do to help you guys out, please don't hesitate to call. I hope that time eases your pain, be assured Dave is watching out for you guys.

Sherod Harris

August 21, 2012

Donna I honestly don't know were to begin! I've been honored to known you and Dave for severely years now; the large proportion of conversations that Dave and I have had always circled around the love for his family. Dave Waterman helped to teach many nurses what it means to be a consummate professional. He can never be replaced and I'm going to miss him greatly. Love you Donna and I'm praying for you and your family.

jennifer artz

August 21, 2012

Praying and sending love and peace to Donna and girls....you have many friends who will see you through this

The Green Family

August 21, 2012

Thoughts and Prayers for the Waterman family. So very sorry for your loss.

Anthony Stucchi

August 21, 2012

RIP Dave.Your accomplishments in the gym and life are respected by many.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.

Ron Drake

August 21, 2012

Dave was a very passionate person, I went to Westmo with him & played pop Warner football together ! Dave's mom actually babysitted me when I was 5! Lots of great memories! I know that heaven is now a better place that my friend of old is with the lord ! My prayers to his family in this very tough time !

Jennifer Curry

August 21, 2012

Dave was a great man and a great nurse. He shared his knowledge and expertise at every opportunity. He was a highly respected member of the SWAT team at Upstate. The team will never be the same after this tragic loss. He was also my friend for which I can never thank him enough. His willingness to share his own life experiences profoundly affected me. To Donna and the girls I send my deepest sympathy at this most horrible time. He will not be forgotten.

Brian Pratt

August 21, 2012

Dave's enthusiasm and passion for life, his family and career were evident to all those around him. It was a privilege to have worked with him. Our team at UH has lost someone very special. Donna may peace find you and your family.

Lisa Perkins / Robson

August 21, 2012

So sorry to the Watermen family I was friends with kathy and dave had many fun times with them any story that was told dave or kathy was always in it many laughs, dave was always so kind and nice he was like a brother to me back then and a neighbor My family is sorry for your loss My parents send prayers to you all,RIP DAVE!!!will never forget ya!

Emily Davis

August 21, 2012

I grew up with Dave and family - neighbors right down the street. This past year I had the honor of having both girls in school and had several great conversations with him. What a patient dad sitting through skating lessons and t-ball games...always so encouraging. I am so sad to see this news and to the girls and their family I would like to extend my deepest sympathy.

Bill Brunnett

August 20, 2012

Donna, So sorry to hear about Dave. He was an amazing man and nurse. He taught so much to so many people. Dave will be GREATLY missed at Upstate and will not be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers go out to you and your kids.

Bill

August 20, 2012

I'm in complete shock about this. Dave was a great friend, husband and father. He was passionate about his job and lived life to the fullest. RIP big Dave, I'll miss you.
Donna, I don't even know what to say im ata lose for words.you and the girls are truly in my thoughts and I'm so sorry for the loss of Dave.

Vonda Bonham

August 20, 2012

Dave was one of the nicest guys from Westmo High. He was always kind, funny, and fun. He will be missed, my prayers to his family and friends.

Stacy Costello/Boezi

August 20, 2012

What a loss, such a sweet guy. I grew up with Dave from Elementary right through to graduation. So many great memories! You will truly be missed Dave! My thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones.

Edward Shepard

August 20, 2012

Donna, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family...Dave was like a brother to me in the Holiday Inn days and I always asked my co-workers at PF how Dave was because I never could catch him there...With love and much sympathy...Ed

Melissa Barrett

August 20, 2012

To Donna and the girls- my prayers and thoughts are with you guys. The loss is great and has been felt my many. I pray for strength and comfort at this time. Dave was a great dad, nurse and husband.

Mark Russell

August 20, 2012

Dave "OX" will be missed by so many people. My thoughts are with the Waterman Family.

Elsa Capria

August 20, 2012

Donna and family,
what a tragedy. It breaks my heart to hear about Dave's passing. I have always enjoyed working with Dave both on 6I and on 9F. Peace be with all of you.

Joann Madore

August 20, 2012

I am sorry to hear about David's passing, I went to school with him at Westmo, he was a good guy, prayers go out to his family and friends

Doug Brown

August 20, 2012

To Donna and all of Dave's family he was a great person to all and will never be forgotten.I will always remember his great laugh and smile.Rest in peace ox ! Hopefully we will meet again someday.

Erika and Mike Yacobucci

August 20, 2012

We were so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. Even though we only knew him in passing through school events he was a great guy. Our hearts go out to Donna and the girls. may God bless them during this difficult time.

Tracey McKee

August 20, 2012

Dave will be greatly missed by all. I am forever thankful for what he has taught me. My thoughts & prayers are with Donna & family.

Tanya Marr

August 20, 2012

Dave was a great man and was an exceptional nurse. I worked with him at university hospital. He was always there to help any time it was needed. Donnay thoughts and prayers go out to you and your two beautiful daughters. Dave may you be at peace up in heaven and soar high through the clouds with the big white wings I know you have.

Fester Kenneally

August 20, 2012

Gonna miss ya ox! so many good times,so long ago. Rest in peace brother!

Laurie Ellis

August 20, 2012

I am so sorry. My thoughts and Prayers are with Donna and Dave's families.

Frank McCann

August 20, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go to the Waterman family. Thank you for sharing him with us at Upstate Hospital. He will be missed greatly on 5B.

Diana Marley

August 20, 2012

What a tragic loss! Dave was a great nurse & a great man! He was loved by many! God Bless you & your family, Donna! You all are in my prayers!

pete and amanda dinardo

August 20, 2012

our thoughts and prayers go out to Donna and her kids.....Dave was a great person who will be missed by all....pete has some very fond memeories of Dave and will never forget him....RIP......sleep with the angels our friend!

Marie Novak

August 20, 2012

Thoughts and prayers are with Donna and her family. Dave will be greatly missed.

Kelley Luke/Smith

August 20, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to Donna and family I worked with Dave at Upstate Hospital he was a great nurse and will be missed but not forgotten!!!!

Dillon's

August 20, 2012

Our heart goes out to you, please let us know if there is anything we can help with, watch the girls for you, or whatever you need! Dave was a great person and respected by others! God Bless you all, prayers for you!

Ty Ecker

August 20, 2012

The nurses at Upstate Medical Center have lost one of their best and brightest stars. Donna and girls, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Christina Cummings and Family

August 20, 2012

Uncle Bill, Aunt Phyllis, Cindy, Kathy, Jessica, Donna and families, I am so sorry for the loss of David. He was always such a good guy and will be fondly remembered. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I love you.

August 20, 2012

Rip Ox!!!

John & Patty Moore

August 20, 2012

Donna, we are so sorry for your loss. Dave was one of the nicest people we know. He will be sadly missed.

Craig Benoit

August 20, 2012

Dave was such a great guy and it's so sad he is gone. I was a two years below Dave at Westmoreland and was lucky enough to be on the football team with him. Although his entire class of 89 were great athletes and decent guys, it was Ox who was always cool to the younger guys. He was helpful to us and always decent to talk to. When I was out of school I ran into him at Brookside Athletic Club and he was obviously the focus of everyone in the room. He still took the time to walk over and say hello, making helpful suggestions. He was too young to go. God bless you and your family Dave.

August 20, 2012

God Bless the Waterman family. What a great loss to the Bulldog community.

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