David P. Schwert

David P. Schwert, 84, of Medina, NY entered into rest on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

Born January 10, 1942, in Wellsville, NY, he was the eldest son of the late Edward E. and Virginia (Peters) Schwert and grew up in the Belmont area. David earned a bachelor’s degree from Allegheny College and his master’s from Carnegie-Mellon University. He went on to earn his PhD from St. Bonaventure University. David married the love of his life, the former Trudi Miller on December 18, 1965. The couple resided in the Alfred area for many years where they raised a family of three children.

David worked for 31 years as a professor at Alfred State College where he taught microbiology, served a term as chair of the Faculty Senate, and in 1985 was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence by the State University of New York. David served for 24 years as an Allegany County Coroner. Active in his community, he was a volunteer fireman with the A.E. Crandall Hook & Ladder Co. for over 30 years, through which he also served as Ambulance Captain and taught EMT courses. He also served on the village board in Alfred and the board of directors at St. James Hospital in Hornell. After his children were off to college, Dave decided to take flight, earning his Private Pilot’s License and went on to become a Certified Flight Instructor.

Following retirement, Dave and Trudi, long-time, well-traveled (from Maine to Alaska) campers, owned and operated Camping at Mariposa Ponds, a campground in Houghton for 13 years. While there, he also served as an adjunct professor at Houghton University. In 2009 the couple moved to Medina and built a home, where they have resided ever since. Dave and Trudi have both enjoyed being active in this community. Dave served on the board of trustees of the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. During the library’s Finally Friday concerts, Dave delighted in hosting jigsaw-puzzle hour. He also taught nutrition courses at Genesee Community College. He and Trudi enjoyed volunteering for years as members of Medina’s Parade of Lights Committee. Dave was a faithful person and remained active with the Catholic and Presbyterian churches.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Kathryn Louise “Kelli” Schwert, in 2010.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Trudi M. Schwert of Medina; sons, Peter M. Schwert of AZ and Daniel D. (Amy) Schwert of IL; two granddaughters, Julia and Lilli Schwert; two brothers, Douglas (Gerre) and Donald Schwert; niece, Erin Schwert and nephews, Richard and William Hall, Matthew and Kevin Schwert.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, 620 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103, the A. E. Crandall Hook & Ladder Co., P.O. Box 582, Alfred, NY 14802 or Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org.