David G. Vanderhoek

David G. Vanderhoek, 90, of Lewiston, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 in Mount St. Mary’s Hospital.  Born on February 27, 1927 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Daniel George and Ethel (Purcell) Vanderhoek.  

Mr. Vanderhoek was a lifelong area resident.  David attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School.  He attended Syracuse University and then went on to earn his Associates Degree in Applied Science from the University at Buffalo.  Mr. Vanderhoek proudly served in the United States Navy, during World War II, until his honorable discharge on December 3, 1946.  On April 19, 1952, David married the former Barbara A. Michener. 

Throughout his career, David worked as an electronics technician and engineer, working for Bell Aircraft, Cornell Aeronautical, American Optical, Occidental Petroleum, Electronic Automation, Kimberly-Clark and in 1989 retired from Aero Instruments.

Mr. Vanderhoek initiated the restoration of the Sheas Buffalo Mighty Wurlitzer Organ and was a HAM radio enthusiast, using his handle, W2VLL.  David was a lifelong member of Lockport Amateur Radio Association, a life-member of the Western Lakes Dog Training Club and a former member of Shetland Sheep Dog of WNY as well as Rainbow Agility. He enjoyed skiing and scuba diving and assisted in the recovery of a train at Sherkston Quarry.

In addition to his beloved wife, Mr. Vanderhoek is survived by his daughters, Sandra (John) Miller and Sue (Jim) Kolczynski; 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; one brother, Robert (Patricia) Vanderhoek and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

All services will be held privately with David’s family in Acacia Park Cemetery.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Michael R. Goodlander, OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME. Please visit www.goodlandercares.com for online condolences.