Dominick Donald Gasbarre, 77, of Fairport, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a devoted husband to Barbara, proud father to Andrew (Taylor) and Kyle, and adoring grandpa to Riley, Enzo, Octavia, and Andi.

Born and raised in Fairport, Dominick’s roots ran deep in the community he cherished. For over 50 years, he shared his passion for the underwater world as a S.C.U.B.A. instructor trainer, inspiring countless students—including more than 35 years of teaching at RIT. His zest for life extended far beyond the water: he was a car enthusiast who once rebuilt a motor from scratch, a gardener who found joy in nurturing the earth, and a loyal companion to his beloved fur baby, Grace, who kept watch over his garden from mischievous chipmunks.

Dominick’s heart was always with his four-legged soulmate, Channing. We take comfort in knowing they are reunited, with endless tennis balls to chase and throw.

A viewing will be held on December 23, from 4–6 PM at Richard H Keenan Funeral Home 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Rd, Fairport. A Memorial Service will follow on January 3 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 77 Country Corner in Fairport.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Lollypop Farm, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, causes close to Dominick’s heart.

Dominick’s life was one of joy, curiosity, and devotion and great food. His spirit will live on in every dive, every garden bloom, every rev of an engine, and every wagging tail.

22 responses to “Gasbarre, Dominick Donald”

  1. Dom was one of the first friends that I met at Minerva HS when I moved to Fairport at 15 years old. He was always friendly and remained a TRUE friend throughout our High School ye. RIP my friend,

  2. Barb & family, Dom was a wonderful guy, I remember getting together watching the Bills played in the Super Bowl. He was a fun guy with a lot of stories. I will miss him

  3. Dom was my scuba instructor when I was in college. He made our learning to scuba class fun, but also taught us how to do it safely. I thought he was a great guy. I am very sorry for your loss.

  4. Dom was/is a Fraternity Brother from our time at RIT, my sincere condolences to the Gasbarre family. I Will miss Dom’s sense of humor, his discussion of RIT meals and his sense of brotherhood. Thoughts and Prayers are with the Gasbarre family.

  5. Just a good man, served his country, great laugh, with a zest for life. I was proud to call him a fellow veteran and my fraternity brother. Condolences to his family at this difficult time.❤️🙏

  6. The Veterans Outreach Center extends our deepest sympathy in Dominick’s passing. We acknowledge and are truly grateful for his service to our country.

  7. I met Dominick through my brother while working at Pennwalt back in the 1970’s or 80’s. I remember him being a genuine kind and happy person who always tried to make everyone smile. Condolences to his family.

  8. Dominick was a mentor and friend, from encounters at Deep Run Park, at the Scuba Emporium, and fabulous pasta meals at Dutch Springs, always professional and dedicated to beginners and experienced divers; and enjoying his passion at the same.
    Thank you, Dominick, for all you’ve done for the Rochester community.

  9. He was my fraternity brother, SCUBA instructor, wedding photographer and life long friend. A kind sole who made the world a better place. I’ll miss you old friend.

  10. A Teke fraternity brother for life… Dom was a force of nature.. was a patient instructor for me and my wife. He was a kind soul with a zest for life – full of stories from skiing, to tending grapes.. his Chevelle SS. May he find the peace he is so deserving of. Grace and comfort to Barb and family.

  11. Fall 1975, RIT – TKE House – PC 11 – Dominic was a true brother! He cared, respected, loved those that came to the 5th floor of Gibson, stood on the line! You changed my life! I’ll never forget! Peace be with you! Bro Tim

  12. Don will be missed by all his brothers in TKE.
    He was kind, funny, and always the friend that everyone wanted to have.
    Sorry to hear that he’s gone.

  13. Never met anyone like Dominick! he was entertaining, passionate, and loyal. He taught me how to breath underwater and what it meant to be a brother.

    RIP Dom, you will be missed.

  14. Our hearts are broken. Dominick made such a big impact on the person that I am today. He started out as our scuba instructor, and quickly became our friend for the last 39 years. He always made us laugh. Even if we went long stretches without talking, we could pick up the phone and feel like no time has passed. Thinking of his family as they navigate this difficult time-love to them all! Kelly, Brian and Finn Wilson

  15. As I think back on Dom’s humor, energy, devotion to the RIT Teke community and service to our country I am eternally thankful to have known him. He also was an exceptional SCUBA instructor. Thoroughly enjoyed the class and my open water dive in a freezing NYS lake.

    Thank you Dom!

    You and your family are in our prayers!

  16. R I P my friend, I knew Dom From our days at Minerva Deland HS. He was always happy and you could always count on him very a BIG Smile and very joyful :Good Morning ” R I P Dom . Thank you for your service always

  17. There aren’t enough words to express how much we loved Uncle Dommy. His stories about his life experiences and travels were funny and enlightening. We will miss his hearty “Hellooo!” whenever he called, his signature greeting, and the authentic way he mimicked the Swedish Chef from the Muppets! Uncle Dommy, enjoy your mother’s 7 fishes in heaven on Christmas Eve, and God Bless You till we meet again. All our love…
    Leo and Jeanette, Melissa and Joe, Chris and Kaylee, Madison, Aiden, Ayvah and Avery.

  18. Dom was a fellow classmate, Fairport class of 67. Ran into him now and then at the scuba business and the same guy, always smiling, full of life. It was sad when I learned from his cousin Divina that he was in a nursing home and having medical issues. I am thankful that several of our classmates sent him cards and visited him. I hope he knew that we all cared about him.

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