David M. Green

David M. Green (the M is for Magnificent) of East Shelby, NY, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the age of 83, following a lengthy illness.

Born December 13, 1942, in Medina, he was the son of the late Milton G. and C. Jessie (Howe) Green. Dave was a proud graduate of Medina High School, Class of 1961. He remained close with his classmates for the remainder of his life, spearheading the organization of their class reunions every five years, including their 65th reunion planned for this July. Shortly after graduation, Dave married his high school sweetheart, Jessie M. Eckerson, on May 19, 1962. The couple raised a family of three children and have resided in East Shelby ever since.

Dave had a lifelong passion for firefighting. At the age of 18, he joined the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Co., a thriving and proud community to this day, much due to Dave’s efforts. Over the years, he served as Captain in 1962, Fire Chief from 1966 to 1972, President in 1978 and 1979, and as Steward for over 46 years. He coordinated and organized countless fundraisers and events, and was proud to represent the fire company by driving the fire truck in the Parade of Lights. The East Shelby community is forever grateful.

In 1970, he was appointed Orleans County Emergency Manager. In 1972, he was given additional duties as County Fire Coordinator. His exemplary leadership in these positions during the Blizzard of ’77 proved that he would be an excellent candidate to run for higher office, and he was elected as Orleans County Sheriff in 1978, proudly and successfully serving in this role for 20 years. Dave was also elected President of the New York State Sheriff’s Association, a Herculean role for a small-town Sheriff.

Dave was a natural “people person.” His friendly personality and kind demeanor were unmistakably evident in his family life, friendships, leadership roles, and volunteerism. In addition to his civic efforts, he coached the Amazing Mets Little League Baseball Team for 20 years. Dave was also a classic car enthusiast, proudly organizing the Medina Cruise Nights and Super Cruise for more than 25 years.

Dave was an important part of the fabric of not only East Shelby and Medina, but of all Orleans County. To know Dave Green, whether eating lunch at Rudy’s, sitting in the truck room at the fire hall, strolling in the canal basin surrounded by classic cars, attending a fire scene or an EMT call, or sharing time with him as he lounged in his favorite chair watching the Bills with Jessie and his children, grandchildren, great-grandkids, and his beloved dog Norman at his feet, he touched your life. You laughed at his jokes, learned from his wisdom, respected his leadership, and felt his faith in you. The Mayor of East Shelby will be sincerely missed by his family, friends, and community.

In addition to his parents, Dave was predeceased by his sister, Jeannie Reckahn; son-in-law, Michael Russo; great-grandson, Nolin Thomas; and niece, Cynthia Lindsay.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Jessie Green; their children, Jeffrey (Bronwyn) Green, Lisa Russo (Nathan London), and Scott (Meaghan) Green; Kevin Kaderli, Jr. (Laura Marek), who was like a son to him; grandchildren, Ryan (Liz) McPherson, Alyssa (Steve) Thomas, Sawyer (Josh) Green, Paige Bennett, Shelby Green, and Carter Green (Renee Webber); great-grandchildren, Hollis, Finch, and Glenn Green, Roen and Margot Thomas, and Zeke and Norah Bennett; niece, Catherine Buzanski; nephew, Bruce Reckhan; and many cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 13, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, June 14 at 1:00 PM at the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Hall, 5021 E. Shelby Rd, Medina, NY 14103. Interment will be in Millville Cemetery at the family’s convenience. Instead of flowers, please consider honoring Dave’s memory with a donation to the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Co. at the address above. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.