Dave

Westmere, NY

David D. Sullivan, Sr., affectionately known to many as “Dave” and “Sully,” age 75, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31st, 2025, at Baptist Health Center. Dave was born on February 9th, 1950, in Albany, NY to the late Edward J. and Alice V. (Kane) Sullivan.

After graduating from Guilderland High School in 1968, Dave enlisted into the U.S. Army Reserves, where he proudly served locally for 21 years, retiring as a Sergeant. During this time, he met and married his soulmate and best friend, Paula DeFlorio, on March 12, 1976. From thereon, Dave began an admirable series of vocational endeavors. He assumed his father’s business, Albany Printing Company, after his father passed away unexpectedly in 1971. The business thrived under Dave’s leadership, until his retirement in 1994. However, Dave wasn’t one to sit idle and enjoyed many years of driving as a bus driver for both the Guilderland Central School District and Hertz.

One of Dave’s proudest accomplishments and most notable acts of service was as a dedicated fireman to his community, with the Westmere Fire Department. Later accompanied by his son, David, Jr., Dave devoted countless hours to protecting the safety and welfare of others. He also served as a member of the Western Turnpike Rescue Squad, up until his ultimate physical tenacity allowed. He will fondly be remembered for his leadership.

Outside of work, Dave experienced life’s greatest pleasures while vacationing on the Jersey Shore with his family. He could often be found relaxing with his lifelong best friend, Gary (Donna) Spawn, a cold beer in hand.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Paula A. Sullivan; his loving children, David D. Sullivan, Jr. (Cheryl), Stephanie (Kenneth) Hennessy, and Sandra Sullivan; his adored grandchildren, David, III, Kaylee, and Ryan Sullivan, Leeah Hennessy, and Connor Sullivan.

In addition to his parents, Dave is preceded in death by his siblings, Edward Sullivan, Jr., Carolyn (Sullivan) Kreag, and Paul Sullivan.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours held on Monday, January 12th, 2026, from 4-7 PM, at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 5216 Western Turnpike, Guilderland, NY.

A Funeral Service for Dave will be held the following morning on Tuesday, January 13th, at 11 AM, at the funeral home.

The processional escort to Memory Gardens Cemetery will begin immediately after the ceremony, during which time Dave’s Last Call Tribute will be signaled throughout the Westmere Firehouse on Western Avenue.

Interment with Military Honors will conclude Dave’s services at 1 PM, in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Albany, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dave’s name to the Westmere Fire Department, 1741 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12203.