Mr. David Michael "Bongie" Bongiovanni, age 62, of Dalton, GA departed this life Sunday morning, August 30, 2026 at Parkridge Medical Center in Chattanooga, TN after a brief battle with cancer. He was born on October 31, 1963 in Buffalo, a son of the late John and Grace Parinella Bongiovanni.
He was also preceded in death by his sister, Anita Bongiovanni; and brother, Anthony Bongiovanni.
David was a hard-working man who was employed with the Laborers' Union Local #210 of the Southern Tier before beginning his career with Wal-Mart, where he worked from 2007 until retiring in 2025. He took pride in his work and the many people he met throughout his years of employment. David had a true passion for the demolition derby sport. He loved everything about demolition derbies and was the original founder of the Lake Erie Rumble, an event that reflected his enthusiasm and dedication to the sport he enjoyed so much. His love for demolition derbies was a special part of who he was and will be remembered by all who shared that passion with him. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he graduated boot camp in Anniston, AL and was based out of Atlanta, GA.
David will be remembered for his hard-working nature, his love of family, and the Dallas Cowboys and the hundreds of Christmas cookies he made and distributed with Stephanie. He leaves behind many cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his fiancée, Stephanie Anderson of Dalton, GA; sons, David Bongiovanni, Jr. and Matthew Bongiovanni, both of Dunkirk; grandchildren, Isabella Bongiovanni, Blake Bongiovanni and Gavin Bongiovanni, all of Dunkirk; his fiancée's children, Daniel Anderson, Richard Anderson and Amie Anderson, all of Dalton, GA; brothers and sisters-in-law, John (Janet) Bongiovanni of Williamsville, and Frank (Brenda) Bongiovanni of Forestville; sister and brother-in-law, Sharon (Pete) Lucas of Silver Creek; and many nieces and nephews.
Services to celebrate the life of Mr. David Michael Bongiovanni will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ponders Melrose Chapel in Dalton, GA at (706) 226-4002.
