David Harding Empie

David Harding Empie passed away on March 22, 2026 at Milford Regional Hospital in Milford, MA. He was 86. The son of the late

Howard and Elsie Empie, he was born in Gloversville, NY on February 17, 1940. 

David was a devoted family man who valued time spent together, especially sitting on the back porch with a cup of coffee and family close by. He was an avid fly fisherman, outdoorsman, and gifted storyteller. He found great joy spending time in the Adirondacks, particularly at Big Moose Lake and the Boreas River.

He lived with a strong sense of purpose and care for the people and places he loved. He took great pride in operating Sir Waltree Christmas Tree Farm and being a trail keeper for the Mohonk Preserve. He was a member of the Brits of the Hudson Auto Club and enjoyed road rallies with his 1951 MG roadster.  He also loved to travel and always had a story to share when he returned.

David gave generously of his time to the Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky, working in the greenhouse and on the farm, and was a dedicated supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. His strong work ethic was evident throughout his life, especially during his time with the United States Army’s 854th Engineer Battalion and his 33-year federal government career. 

He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his commitment to service, and the example he set by living his life with integrity and generosity. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Fran; his children, Jonathan Empie (Erica) and Alynda Foreman (Mark); and his granddaughters, Darcy, Sarah, Lauren, and Bethany. He was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Elsie, and his brother, Bruce. He is also survived by his siblings, Marilyn, Jeff, Pam, and Mark, along with many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by his cat, Muffin.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 1-5pm at William M. Gagan Funeral Home in Pine Bush, New York. A Memorial Service celebrating David’s life will begin at 3:45pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky (http://www.hendersonsettlement.com) or to a charity of your choice.