David J. Sorel

Rensselaer-David J. Sorel passed away peacefully at his home with his loving family by his side on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Born and raised in Albany, Dave attended Cardinal McCluskey and Albany High School. During Dave's school years, he developed a passion for running Cross Country Track. This was the beginning of Dave's ethic by which he lived his life. "You never know your limits until you push yourself to them."

Dave's professional career was as a color specialist for GE Plastics/Sabic Innovative Plastics in Selkirk. His unique eye for color earned him a patent for his development of a custom color. He retired after 38 years of service. 

Dave will be remembered by his many friends and family for his kind heart, generous nature, quick wit, contagious smile but mostly for his unconditional love and famous expression of "aye yi yi". He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Dave was a master woodworker and over many years enjoyed spending time alongside his dad and brother making beautiful pieces of furniture and other items. It was a mutual passion. Their time spent together and the memories made, Dave cherished through his life. 

He was a Giants and Yankees fan; he especially looked forward to watching them with his sister and brother. Dave loved riding his Harley with his buddies, boating from Shady Harbor Marina, and clamming with a special group of friends on their annual clamming trip.

He was proud to be a longtime member and past President of the Rensselaer Fraternal Order of Eagles #4446. He enjoyed spending time at the club with his fraternal brothers and sisters working together to uphold their motto of "People Helping People", the friendships made there, he held close to his heart. 

Dave is survived by his loving wife Donna (Niemiec) Sorel, whom he married in 2013 when a blended family was formed. His daughters Kristyn (Lashoff) LaPoint (Brian), and Laura Niemiec (Sarah), and son Bryan Niemiec (Jair); and two grandchildren Jaedyn and Alaina Niemiec. Dave is also survived by his brother William Sorel (Linda), sisters Julie LeBarron, Cece Sorel-Lanahan, Michele Warrick (Paul), Christina Hoegemann (Kurt), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

He is predeceased by his father Amos F. Sorel, mother Edith M. Sorel, brothers Amos Sorel III, Ronald Sorel, and brother-in-law John Lanahan. 

At Dave's request, in lieu of formal services a Celebration of Life will be held at the Rensselaer Eagles Club, 851 Broadway, Rensselaer, NY on Sunday, July 19th at 1pm.

At this time, Dave's family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at NYOH, Albany Medical Center Hospital (especially the ICU department and the 4th floor), and Community Hospice for the outstanding care they took of our beloved David.