Posted on 10/17/2019
David Paul Dudek, 69, beloved husband, father, son, son in law, brother and uncle, of Cordova, Tennessee, passed away Monday, October 7, 2019 surrounded by his family at home.
He was a 1972 graduate of the Naval Academy and flew A7 jets off carriers during his military service. David traveled the world but was always happiest at home, wherever that was. While at FedEx, David flew the DC10, B727, Airbus 300 and B777. Following graduation, Dave flew A-7’s with several squadrons (including VA-122, VA-27 and VA-146), attended the Naval War College, and had been assigned to the staffs of Light Attack Wing Pacific and Carrier Group THREE. He flew for Horizon Air before signing on flying for FEDEX.
He was extremely proud of his children Joseph and Kate and was involved in many activities with them. David was a Den leader for cub scouts, an assistant coach for basketball and baseball. He enjoyed the Pinewood Derby and camping trips with the scouts and he never tired of telling funny stories about coaching middle school kids.
David is survived by his wife Erica, children Joseph and Kate, sisters Theresa, Mary, Carol and Ann, brothers Charles and Daniel, father and mother in law Dean and Hazel, many nephews and a niece.
His parents Frank and Ruth preceded him in death.
David loved golfing and cheering on the New York Yankees. He ran seven marathons, enjoyed hiking and kayaking. He was an avid astronomer and his family delighted in his stellar expertise. He earned his ham radio operator license at a young age in New York. His call sign in Tennessee was KT7N.
He was born on August 27, 1950 in Attica New York.
“Tried and True with 72” (14th Company)
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 15 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. with the memorial service celebrating his life to follow immediately at 1 p.m.
To view the memorial tribute video, please click the link below:
https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/G9Y6JP835G2XB2KJ
Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery
5668 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38119
901.302.9980
https://www.memorialparkfuneralandcemetery.com/obits/david-dudek/