David J. Karpinske

David “Poonze” Karpinske, 85, of Dunkirk passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Wednesday, July 8 2026, surrounded by family at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo. Born in Dunkirk on April 2, 1941, he was the son of Edmund and Jennie (Tryczenski) Karpinske.

After graduating from Dunkirk High School, David proudly served in the United States Army before starting his career as a mechanic. He later owned and operated Thruway Sunoco Service in Dunkirk for more than 30 years.

When he wasn’t at the gas station, David could often be found drag racing his beloved 1966 Chevelle Super Sport. An avid car enthusiast, David loved nothing more than sharing his passion with his family. His wife and daughter were his trusted pit crew for the racing team, “Against All Odds.”

Memberships include the Fourth Ward Falcon Club and the Kosciuszko Club.

David is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Janis (Kaufman) Karpinske, whom he married on May 10, 1975; his daughter, Debra (Steve) Keyser; his grandchildren, Elise and Garrison Keyser; his sisters-in-law, JoAnn Kaufman, Kay (Michael) Robinson, Carol Brown, and Karen (Andy) Graff; his brother-in-law, John (Mindy) Kaufman; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his son, James, AT3, USCG; his parents-in-law, Carl and Alene Kaufman; his sister and brother-in-law, Janet and Phillip Schultz; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and John Eslinger.

David’s family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Jake Stern for his exceptional care and friendship to David in his final years. 

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 from 4-6 p.m. at McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Ave, Dunkirk, NY. Prayer services will begin at 5:30 p.m. with Military Honors immediately following held by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council. Interment will be held in private. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.