David K. Light

David K. Light, 87, of Marathon, NY, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Marathon on Monday, April 6, 2026.

Born in Cortland, NY on January 28, 1939, Dave was the son of the late Kenneth and Clara Braman Light. Dave's life was marked by a steadfast commitment to his community, his family, and the pursuits he cherished deeply.

Dave retired from Pall Trinity in Cortland in 2002 after an impressive 42 years of dedicated service. Beyond his professional career, he was a respected public servant, having served as the Mayor of Marathon for several years, leaving a lasting impact on the town he loved.

A man of many interests, Dave was an avid hunter and fisherman who found joy and solace in the natural beauty of the land he owned. His passion for craftsmanship was evident in his woodshop, where he spent countless hours creating new projects. Above all, he cherished his family, expressing special love for his grandchildren whose lives he touched profoundly.

His pride extended to his engagements within the community, notably as a member of the First Baptist Church of Marathon. Dave's dedication to preserving local heritage was reflected in his roles as a board member of the Peck Memorial Library and the Marathon Historical Society. Additionally, he was a committed member and contributor to the National Rifle Association.

Dave's passing leaves a profound void among those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Terry Hill Light; his children, Robin (Susan) Light of Marathon, Linda Light Simon of Homer, and Heidi (Ryan) Russell of Marathon. He is further survived by his grandchildren: McKenna (Mitchell) Christman of Cortland, Jared Light of Marathon, Hillary Simon of Louisville, KY, Derrek (MacKenzie) Root of Cincinnatus, Alexis (Cody) Smith of Texas, Kendra Root of Marathon, and Gabrielle Bergman of Cortland. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Adley, Paden, Dax, Benson, Oak, Hudson, Harper, and Lyria. Dave also leaves behind his sisters Donna Perry of Marathon, Dianne Chase of Hamilton, and Dennice (Wayne) Zeeuw of Marathon, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a grandchild, Koa Smith.

Funeral services for Dave will be held at the Marathon Memorial Chapel, 4071 State Route 221, Marathon, NY, on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Tom Boice officiating. Burial will be in Marathon Cemetery. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the start of the service at 1:00 p.m. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Dave may be directed to MAVAC, P.O. Box 132, Marathon, NY 13803.

Dave’s enduring spirit and the profound mark he left on his community and family will be remembered with great respect and affection. His life was one of service, dedication, and love—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.