David L Grant

Mr. David L. Grant, age 49, of Potsdam, NY passed away peacefully at his residence in the town of Potsdam on April 25th. David was surrounded by his loving family and friends. Perfectly fitting, David passed during the national anthem of an NHL playoff game. David was an avid hockey fan his whole life, finding his way to the rink from the time he could walk. He played into college and then professionally.

Friends may call at the Garner Funeral Service on Monday, April 28th from 2-6 pm. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Tuesday, April 29th at 10 am with Rev. Joseph Giroux celebrant. A burial will be held at a later date, at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Contributions in David’s memory can be made to: Potsdam Booster Club, PO Box 806, Potsdam,NY 13676 and CPH Center for Cancer, 50 Leroy St, Potsdam, NY. Condolences in David’s memory can be shared @www.garnerfh.com.

David is survived by his wife Nicole Burkett; his father Leo and stepmom Deborah Grant; daughter Darian Julia Grant (mother Jennifer Cogan Grant); brother Jeffery (Rhonda) Grant; sisters Leanne (Keith) Cofran and Margo (Kristian) Whyte; step brother Christopher Kent and companion Michelle McMahon; step sisters Michelle Kent and companion Casey Collins and Sarah (JJ) Yette and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother Virginia “Ginny” Grant.

David L. Grant was born November 19, 1975 in Potsdam, NY to Leo and Virgina Vernatter Grant. He was a 1994 graduate of Potsdam Central High School. David was an excellent athlete. He excelled in football, hockey, and lacrosse. David went on to play both lacrosse and hockey in college at SUNY Canton. He continued to play professionally for teams in the Colonial and Central Hockey Leagues.

David’s greatest joy was being an incredible Dad to his daughter Darian. He enjoyed attending her sporting events, celebrating her achievements, and watching her grow into a beautiful, smart young lady. He was one of the strongest men; having fought cancer with all of his might. He set goals to survive in order to watch his daughter graduate, to get back to the gym, to be a leader at work, and to enjoy every minute on this Earth with his wife, family, and friends. He crushed those goals; shocking his doctors both locally and at Dana Farber, in Boston. Doctors could not believe the things that David was still able to do, during his battle. David was a true warrior and competitor, our “Superman” who had "no quit” until he had accomplished what he had set out to do.

David worked for more than 20 years for the Town of Potsdam. The Grant family would like to thank Johnny Keleher, and his crew, for the love and support they have given David over the past few years.

David loved hunting and spending time at the family camp on Sampson Pond. He was a die-hard fan of the Chicago Bears and the Boston Bruins. He was a coach, mentor, and athlete. He enjoyed playing in the local men’s hockey and softball leagues. He loved golfing with friends to show his completive side, while also participating in many charitable tournaments to help others when they were in need. He was a member of the Elks and Moose Lodge.

David was larger than life, with a smile that could light up a room. His time in this world was not nearly enough, but he made every day count. He was a gentle giant who will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.