David A. Festa, 81, of Auburn, passed away peacefully Tuesday evening, February 3, 2026, at The Commons on Saint Anthony. He was a lifelong resident of Auburn, the son of the late Anthony and Bessie (Impaglia) Festa.
Dave was a devout Catholic and longtime parishioner and active member of Holy Family Church. Dave was a Mt. Carmel High School graduate, Class of 1962. He received his bachelor’s degree from Niagara University, Class of 1966, and his master’s degree from Syracuse University. He worked for the State of New York as a VESID Senior Rehabilitation Counselor for over 30 years. Once retired, he was self-employed for 20 years as a vocational expert. He was the former President of the Neighborhood House for several years and a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Council #207.
He was an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying Notre Dame athletics, New York Yankees baseball, Niagara University basketball, and Syracuse University football. Dave also loved playing golf and was a former member of both Auburn and Dutch Hollow Country Clubs. Dave was dedicated to his family and friends and thoroughly enjoyed taking vacations, especially to Lake George, Myrtle Beach, Disney World, and Pompano Beach, FL. Above everything, David cherished and loved his family and will be greatly missed by all of them.
He is survived by his loving wife, Vicky (Mancini) Festa of 58 years; their beloved children, daughter Michele (Paul) Smith, daughter Lisa (Luke) Carnicelli, son David (Kelly) Festa; five cherished grandchildren, Alissa and Luciano Carnicelli, Adrianna, Vincent, and Gabriella Festa; sister-in-law Donna Charles, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved canine friends, Marley, Charlie, and Jax.
In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by two brothers, Carl and John Festa. Calling hours are this Saturday, February 7th, from 11 to 1 PM, with services to immediately follow, all inside of Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn.
In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a donation in his memory to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David A. Festa, please visit our floral store.