In Loving Memory of David Pogoda

December 12, 1968 – July 31, 2026

David Pogoda of Farmington, NY, passed away peacefully at home on July 31, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of the family he lived to love and protect. Dave was predeceased by his father, John Pogoda, and his stepmother, Christine Pogoda. He is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Michele [Spinelli]; his five children, Chloe, Joey, Max, Sophie, and Cecelia; his bonus parents, Michael and Cecelia Spinelli; his loving and loyal dog, Benny; and many wonderful family members and friends.

Dave was a devoted husband, father, protector, coach, and faithful servant of God.

Born on December 12, 1968, Dave lived life at full throttle. He was a force of optimism, quick wit, humor, and relentless courage—a true warrior who refused to let his illness define his spirit. He was anchored by an unwavering faith and devotion to Jesus Christ, which sustained him throughout his long and brave fight with pancreatic cancer for more than five years.

To know Dave was to laugh with him. He had an incredible gift for making everyone in the room feel welcome, bringing joy and humor into every moment, no matter the circumstances.

Dave’s greatest accomplishment and proudest legacy was his family. He was the fiercely loving husband and steadfast protector of his wife, and the center of the world for his five children: Chloe, Joey, Max, Sophie, and Cecelia. Everything he did was rooted in his love for them.

Dave believed in doing everything with passion, selflessness, a generous heart, and loving spirit. He was the first person to volunteer to help family or friends with any project, big or small. No matter how laborious the job, Dave would create a fun memory, bringing his radiant joy and mountains of home cooked food. He also loved playing lacrosse and later coaching the game. As a youth lacrosse coach, he didn’t just teach kids how to play; he taught them confidence, toughness, and heart.

At home, Dave was happiest when the house was full. He loved cooking for family and friends, throwing parties, and bringing people together around a great meal and plenty of laughter. His other passion was building. After a house fire in 2016, Dave rebuilt his family’s house under the tutelage of his bonus father, Michael Spinelli. He graduated from lovingly being called “Duct Tape Dave”—because he could fix anything with duct tape—to becoming a skilled carpenter who could fix, design, and build almost anything.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of resilience, fierce love, and steadfast faith. His family takes comfort in knowing he fought the good fight of faith with every ounce of his being, maintained his brave and optimistic spirit, and is now resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus Christ.

Calling Hours to be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services of Victor, 301 W. Main Street. Service in celebration of David’s life will be held at 2:30 PM, on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Victor Community Church, 7500 NY-251 Victor NY 14564, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Fragile X Foundation. Click HERE to donate