David Houser

David Erle Houser, 84, of Apalachin, N.Y., transitioned from this life on March 23, 2026, in Fort Myers, Fla.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane (Jenot) Houser, and his son, Mark E. Houser of Cape Coral, Fla. David was predeceased by his daughter, Carrie Houser (2004), and his brother-in-law, Tony Copenhagen (2024). He is also survived by his sister, Mary “Mo” Copenhagen; his brother, John “Yode” A. Houser and wife Sandy; and his in-laws, Roger and Judy Jenot, Anita Jenot and Ned Throckmorton, Carla Jenot and Aiden and Carol Jenot. His many nieces and nephews will fondly remember the “good times” they shared, fueled by David’s quick wit and love for a competitive game of euchre.
Born in Dallas, Texas, to John A. and Martha (Davidson) Houser, David lived in many states but always considered Marion to be his hometown. After graduating from Marion Harding High School, he attended The Ohio State University, where he earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. David was drafted into the U.S. Army and stationed at Picatinny Arsenal in Dover, N.J. It was during his service that he proposed to Diane; she accepted wholeheartedly, drawn to his good-natured, unassuming character, his honesty and his rare ability to make her laugh every day. Following his honorable discharge, David began a fulfilling career with IBM in Endicott, N.Y., where he remained until his retirement.
Known affectionately by the nicknames “Prodigy” and “Advanced Thinker,” Dave was precise and scientific in every endeavor, from the meticulous way he crafted fine furniture to the exact measurement of his food portions. He approached life with a designer’s eye, appreciating the “how” as much as the “why.” His diverse hobbies included building and flying model airplanes, golfing, fishing, playing bridge, traveling and reading. A creative force in his beloved basement workshop, he designed and constructed everything from unique toys (including a rotating contemporary dollhouse) and elaborate Halloween costumes to an intricate purple martin birdhouse, his signature brown fishing jigs and custom tools for his many home projects.
For over 50 years, Dave cherished the annual fishing trip to Canada with his brother, son and various family members. While the fish were not always caught, the Crown Royal was always poured, the yearly cigars always smoked and the lasting memories were always made.
In retirement, David joined the Apalachin Lions Club, where he found great joy in serving his community and sharing in the camaraderie of his fellow members.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Dave’s memory by spending a day with a friend. Alternatively, memorial donations may be made to the Apalachin Lions, PO Box 317, Apalachin, NY 13732.
A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 10, at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Carey. Visitation will begin at the church at 10 a.m. Inurnment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a funeral luncheon at Shrine Cafeteria in Carey following the services.