David H. Garwood, 71

Wellsville, NY – David H. Garwood, 71, left this Earth into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at his residence in Wellsville. He was born in Warsaw on Febraury 12, 1950 the son of the late Gerald A. Sr. and Faith (Oliver) Garwood. 

Upon graduating from Wellsville High School in 1968, Dave answered the call of duty witht eh United States Army. He began with his basic training at Fort Dix in New Jersey, and then infantry training school in Fort Benning of Georgia. Once his training was complete he was deployed to Vietnam where he served his tour with the 101st Airborne Division. On his last mission, David was leading point when his squad was ambushed, and during the ensuing firefight he was injured and subsequently evacuated back to the United States where he served out the remainder of his service at Ford Ord in California. Before his Honorable Discharge, he earned several awards including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with V Device 2 O/S Bars, the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle M16 distinction, the First Calss Gernade, and the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle M14 distinction. 

Following his military service Dave worked in construction in Pennsylvania with his father, and later returned to his hometown of Wellsville, where he lived out the remainder of his life as a faithful friend to those who knew him, a familiar icon and face to residents around town where he took his daily walks. He will be missed by his family, friends, and many in the community. The family wishes to thank those who have come forward with condolences and their “Dave” stories. 

He is survived by: three brothers, Gerry (Kathleen) Garwood of Goleta, CA, Kevin (Kandra) Garwood of Placerville, CA, and Lon (Ji Young) Garwood of Seoul, South Korea; several nieces and nephews, Buzz (Heather) Garwood, Tom (Yetta) Garwood, Maggie (Chris) Graham, Abby (Aaron) Swaney, Jade (Matt) Monarski, Garrett (Lindsey) Garwood, Sharon (Brian) Robinson, and Jason Garwood; dozens of cousins, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces. He was predeceased by his parents. 

A graveside service in Woodlawn Cemetery is being planned for the Spring with a reception to follow with family, friends, and acquaintances welcome to join and share stories. Details will be announced at a later date. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.