David Allen LeClair

The loving, generous life of David LeClair, 68, of Elbridge, ended peacefully at home on Saturday April 4, 2015 with his favorite girls by his side.  An amazing man whose devotion to family and friends coupled his energy for his passions in life. Strong, yet gentle; intelligent, yet humble; optimistic, yet protective; entertaining, yet humble. As his mom once said, "You're a good man, David." David was born and raised in North Syracuse, son of Harold and Geri LeClair. An early interest in cars led to owning auto repair shops and later retiring from Alan Byer Auto Sales.  In his youth, he had many classic cars, and, at retirement, he had his head under the hood and hands on the wheel of his dream 1930 Ford Model A hot rod.  He could have easily played the role of "Toad" in the movie American Graffiti. With self-taught skills, an innovative mind and adept hands, David became world-known for bamboo fly rod restoration, gunsmithing and development of tools and components for all his trades. His craftsmanship, honesty and good nature led to lasting friendships with those who shared his interests and were cherished by all whose life paths he crossed. David loved nature's environment: mountains, trees, trout streams and all animals.  He enjoyed camping and vacations in the Adirondacks, Vermont, Maine, Prince Edward Island and Montour Falls. Also a fan of hot rod cruise-ins, nostalgic diners, rock and roll bands, playing guitar and crooning to the oldies.  A true "Baby Boomer." The jokester around a campfire, "Dr. Doolittle" to critters and the "other" Everly Brother, he will be The loving, generous life of David LeClair, 68, of Elbridge, ended peacefully at home on Saturday, April 4, 2015 with his favorite girls by his side.  An amazing man whose devotion to family and friends coupled his energy for his passions in life.  Strong, yet gentle; intelligent, yet humble; optimistic, yet protective; entertaining, yet quiet.  As his mom once said, "You're a good man, David." David was born and raised in North Syracuse, son of Harold and Geri LeClair. An early interest in cars led to owning auto repair shops and later retiring from Alan Byer Auto Sales.  In his youth, he had many classic cars, and, at retirement, he had his head under the hood and hands on the wheel of his dream 1930 Ford Model A hot rod.  He could have easily played the role of "Toad" in the movie American Graffiti. With self-taught skills, an innovative mind and adept hands, David became world-known for bamboo fly rod restoration, gunsmithing and development of tools and components for all his trades. His craftsmanship, honesty and good nature led to lasting friendships with those who shared his interests and were cherished by all whose life paths he crossed. David loved nature's environment: mountains, trees, trout streams and all animals. He enjoyed camping and vacations in the Adirondacks, Vermont, Maine, Prince Edward Island and Montour Falls. Also a fan of hot rod cruise-ins, nostalgic diners, rock and roll bands, playing guitar and crooning to the oldies.  A true "Baby Boomer." The jokester around a campfire, "Dr. Doolittle" to critters and the "other" Everly Brother, he will be dearly missed for his many talents and by all who knew him. David was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Geri LeClair; and his favorite fishing buddies, Uncle Dick Eby and brother-in-law, Jim Perrett. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 39 years, Patty; brother, Ron (Marilyn) LeClair; sister, Debbie Perrett; nephew, Michael Perrett; aunts, Irene Eby and Ginny Rowe; uncle, Ken Price; endeared cousins, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; friends and extended family. Per David's request, there will be no calling hours or service; his wish for you is to celebrate his life.  Honor him by doing an activity he enjoyed or shared with you.  Cast a line, take a road trip, enjoy a campfire, play some tunes, or simply feed the birds. David and Patty were blessed with the love and support of family and friends throughout his journey and appreciated the good times and memories made. David and Patty would like to thank Michelle, their phone-a-friend, whose loving care gave them comfort and peace. We would also like to thank the entire staff of Hematology/Oncology Associates on Onondaga Hill for the compassionate care given to David. Contributions may be made to Hematology/Oncology Associates of CNY, 4900 Broad Rd., Syracuse, NY 13215 or to any Alzheimer's association chapter. Share condolences at www.BuranichFH.com