David B. Robillard, age 99 ¾, passed away on April 10, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital.
David was born on June 14, 1925 at home to the late David H. and Dorothy (Barber) Robillard. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1942. He married Georgia M. Davis on March 1, 1947 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church. Georgia passed away on May 4, 1991.
David worked throughout New York State until 1990 when he retired. Throughout his career he worked for Benson Mines, St. Joseph Mines, Gouverneur Paper Mill, and Nesco’s. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers #158 (District 545) for 77 years. His years with IUOE included the building of Interstate 81, 481, 88, and 390. He also was involved in the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. In 1963 he moved to Fisher’s Landing, NY where he was a partner in Reed’s Marina. He was a member of the APBA C-Hydro Class Boat Racing Team. He won at the C-Hydro Nationals in Canada in the early 1960’s. He won many races in the 36 runabouts and ran in the Thousand Island Marathon. This was a huge part of his life for which he loved. In 1970 he returned to the family homestead in Gouverneur. He built the Sugar House and started producing Maple Syrup with his family. In 1978 to present he and his wife established Plant City. David was a self-taught mechanic and a “jack of all trades” who could fix anything. He had a great love for his family and the family homestead.
He is survived by his 6 children, Norma R. Hill of Fayetteville, NY, David G. Robillard (Yvonne) of Benbrook, TX, Wayne Robillard of Edwards, Donna Gonyo (Jack) of Mooers, NY, Gail O’Hearn of Gouverneur, NY, and Amy Robillard (Jeff Calhoun) of Hendersonville, NC. 10 grandchildren, Christopher (Kristy), Kelly (Mike), Shawn (Carrie), Michael (Tanya), Matthew (Keegan), Marcus (Kassandra), Jacque, Samantha, Christin, and Courtney (Brent). 12 great-grandchildren, Sierra (William), Olivia, Corey, Ayden, Delilah, Arbor, Korbin, Ayla, Maddox, Beckham, Ryliegh, and Landon. Nieces, Margaret and Nancy. He is also survived by his beloved cat, PC.
David is predeceased by his parents, David and Dorothy Robillard, his sister, Martha Robillard, his step-sister, Loretta Robillard Goligher, and a great-grandson, Wesley.
A special thank you to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. A heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to his homecare support team, Rachel, Jim, and Shelby.
There will be a Celebration of Life held at the family home, 965 US Hwy 11, Gouverneur on his 100th birthday, June 14, 2025. Details to be announced. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Donations in memory of David may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, PO Box 510, Potsdam NY 13676 or Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur NY 13642.