David John Hodge

David John Hodge, 73, formerly of Dexter, NY passed away peacefully on June 26, 2021, at Autumn Lake Nursing Home, Cromwell, Connecticut, where he had been a resident since 2019. On September 26, 1947, David was born to Gerald W. and Mary E. Hodge in Watertown, NY. He was educated in Watertown schools and often would reminisce about his friends growing up on East Division Street. He was a longtime communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church. In his senior year of high school, he chose to obtain his GED and enlist in the United States Army, eventually serving in Vietnam from 1966 to 1969. This is amongst his greatest achievements. Following the service, he worked for Miller Brewery in upstate New York eventually settling at Fort Drum as a civilian employee running heavy equipment. He was medically retired in 2004 following a series of strokes. David married the love of his life, Candace (Candy) Lee Shear on May 24, 1969, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, Watertown, New York. The two made their home on Pillar Point, until selling their home to winter in the south. For many years they camped in the north and wintered in the south, always chasing the sun. In 2018, they made the move to Connecticut to be near family. To David his family was everything and everything was family.

Along with his wife, David is survived by, a son David C. and his wife Jennifer and their two children, Daniel John (17) and Katelyn Grace (13) of Dexter, NY, his daughter Amy Jo and her husband Grady Fitzpatrick and their two children, Janae Nichelle (22) and Jaylen Rashaun (19) of Middletown, CT. He also leaves behind a sister Elizabeth Kellar and her husband Mark along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Gerald Hodge.

David always had a story to tell and where there was a story there was sure to be a laugh or two. And who could forget the sound effects. His family will remember his warmth and endless love. He will be missed dearly, but will forever be in our hearts.

If you would like to remember David, donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors or a children’s charity of one’s choice. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  To share memories or send condolences, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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