Wednesday, December 25, 2024
I regret to say I just heard of Dave’s passing on Christmas day 2024. I certainly would have been delivering my deepest sorrow to his family in person for their loss.
Dave and I were great friends from riding the bus to school through our high school days. He was one of my best friends and for a few years we were inseparable until girlfriends became more the priority than hanging out with buddies.
We lived less than 10 miles apart when we lived at home and we traveled 9J daily. One day I was on my way to Albany going south on the flats near Nutton Hook when I saw Dave’s white Thunderbird coming the opposite direction. I immediately yanked my red Trans Am into his lane and he did the same. We went past each other in opposite lanes at 9J speeds with huge smiles and thumbs up. My trust in him was unwavering. He was an important part of my life growing up and I truly regret never tracking him down since leaving the Hudson area in the late 90’s.
One night in 1979 as we are cruising Warren Street in Hudson and heard a commercial for the Pennsylvania jam with Ted Nugent, Blackfoot and several other bands. He looked at me a said what are you doing this weekend.. I said going to the Poconos as he pointed the trusty T Bird out of town. I don’t remember much of the trip and assume we slept in the car since we didn’t have any plans until we did. The tiny flashes of the concert that I recall are distant memories but the spontaneity and loyal friendship remain crystal clear.
To Debbie and his family, I am deeply sorry for your loss! Dave’s passing is a great loss for all who were blessed to know him. May God’s peace be with you forever my brother!
Respectfully,
Bill Schabot
