David E. Crandall

OLEAN — David E. Crandall, 84, of Olean, passed away Thursday (April 18, 2026).

A lifelong resident of Olean, he was the son of Orin Edward and Kathleen Mae Davy Crandall.

David graduated from Olean High School and was always a hard worker. He worked as a laborer and was a proud brother of the Laborers’ International Union, serving as the business agent.

David was also a bartender, spending many years behind the bar as the sole proprietor of the Royal. At the age of 65, David began work as a security guard at the Seneca Allegany Casino. He continued working there until September of last year, retiring only when illness made it necessary.

David was very proud of all of his children and cherished the time he was able to spend with them in his final days.

A fan of all sports, David was at Madison Square Garden in 1967 to see Mohammed Ali fight Zora Folley and had the photo from LIFE magazine to prove it! In 2016, he finally saw his Chicago Cubs win the World Series. And just a few months ago, David saw the Bonnies play in person when his friend, Candy, brought him to see the game courtside. Of course, we all wished David had been able to see the Buffalo Bills win the Super Bowl before his passing.

He is survived by his children, Tammy Spencer, David A. Crandall and Diana (Peter) Skelly; his stepdaughters, Christine (Michael) Kryzak and Ann (Jay) Sorokes; his grandchildren, Aaron (Allison) Gamez, Garrett Crandall, Megan (Tylar, fiancé) Crandall, Ethan Skelly and Collin Skelly; his step‑grandchildren, Kayla Kryzak, Clare (Jake) Middaugh and Matthew Sorokes; and his great‑grandchildren, Rocky and Knox Gamez. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Hellmann, who remained a loving presence throughout his life.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Rosemary Germano Crandall; his brothers, Norman Crandall and Ronald Crandall; his grandson, Anthony Gamez; his step‑grandson, Alexander Kryzak; and his lifelong friend, Jimmy Hart.

David will be missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. Always a “man about town,” David seemed to know everyone, and everyone seemed to know him. He had many friends, and the family wishes to thank you all for checking in on him and visiting with him during his time at the nursing home. He looked forward to seeing every one of you. Especially his friend Kelley, who was very dear to him. Special thanks to his nurse, Jill, for your care and attention during David’s final days.

A Celebration of David’s Life will be announced at a later date. David would appreciate it if you opened up a Pabst Blue Ribbon and thought of him as you take your first sip.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.