Van Dewater Sr., David J. - January 19, 2023 - Beloved husband of Joanna L. (Shields) Van Dewater. Devoted father of James K. Van Dewater IV, David J. “DJ” (Tiffany) Van Dewater Jr., Patrick G. (Kristin) Van Dewater, and Daniel T. (Sara) Van Dewater. Loving Gramps of Owen, Kennedy, Victoria, Olivia, Addisyn, Jackson, Audrey, Clare, Connor, and Emma. Dear brother of Denise (Neal) Clark, Robert, Guy (Ann), and the late John Van Dewater. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Dave was the longtime business owner of Kenwood Service, Napa Auto Parts Store. He was also a firefighter for 25 years at Ellwood Volunteer Fire Company in the Town of Tonawanda where he served in many capacities, including company Chief and District Commissioner. The family will receive friends at the C. Mertz and Son Funeral Home, Inc. 911 Englewood Ave. on Tuesday from 3 to 7 PM. All are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John the Baptist Church, 1085 Englewood Ave. on Wednesday at 10:45 AM. Please assemble at Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave's memory to Hospice Foundation of WNY. Please share condolences at www.mertzfh.com