It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of David Irving Vermilya, 83, of Rochester who passed away on Wednesday September 22, 2021. Dave is survived by his wife Caryl (Robbins) Vermilya, his daughter Kimberly (Vermilya) Bindas, also of Rochester, and a grandson, Landon David Bindas of Rochester. He is the oldest of five siblings, born to Ruth (Walsh) and William Vermilya of Mattapoisett - three brothers, Thomas of California, and the late Hank and John, and his sister, the late Ruth Ann Vermilya Handy. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and a large extended family whom he adored.
Dave worked most of his life as a machinist, but his true love was Hot Rod cars. From his early days, he won soap box derbies on Ship Street in Mattapoisett. His first press was being featured on front cover of the Wanderer. In 1958 Dave left for California with two friends. It was in California that the team of Marshall & Vermilya was formed and eventually built an AA top Fuel Dragster, entered the drag racing scene and made some lifetime friends. Numerous victories and track records followed and on August 29, 2015 the team was inducted into the NHRA Hall of Fame. Dave will be deeply missed by his family and friends! Known to many as smiling Dave, his smile and the kindness he showed others will eternally be remembered.
His Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday October 13, 2021 at 10 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in Center Cemetery in Rochester. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday Oct. 12 from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Rochester Fire Department, 4 Pine St., Rochester, AM 02770. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.