David Duda Jr, 70, originally of Chicago, Illinois, passed away in the early hours of Friday, April 28, 2017 at home with his wife, daughter and grandchildren in Henderson, Nevada.
He was born, October 27, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois and was the first born to David and Mary Duda Sr. David was blessed with a large family which included 5 siblings: Sandra Duda, Bob Duda (Pat), Donna Gabor (John), John Duda, and Lisa Charneske (Bill). As David grew up he was surrounded by family in the same neighborhood; he often loved to reminisce the days of having so much family around that he could throw a stone and hit a cousin. Through the years David shared so many stories of his days growing up, some include: stealing his father’s car at 8 years old, going downstairs to his Grandma’s apartment with his cousins, walking to church with his Aunt Rose, not to mention racing his cousin Phil and getting caught by the Police – just to name a few; from a young age, he never had a dull moment. David often recalled that at 17 years old he walked to his mother and father and proudly proclaimed he had joined the Marine Corps because they needed him; he served in the Vietnam War where he met men who became his â€brothers†and created life long bonds and pride in their efforts and Country.
David married Mary Kay Connelly and set forth on a journey of an endless love. Through the love, laughter, and crazy times they shared, they formed a family of 6 children: Brian (Janet), Kevin (Patty), Jimmie (Donna), Danny (Deena), Michael (deceased) and Katie; with whom they created a life that was full of love, laughter and happiness. Through their children, he was blessed with 16 grandchildren: Megan (Don), Jackie (Will), Allie, Nick, Breanna (Rory), David, Maggie, Carlie, Kayla, Isabella, Danny Jr, Jovani, Jack, Jaylen, Catherine, and Faith as well as his “adopted†grandchildren Katie, Sarah, and Joey Dalo. David was proud not only to be a “Father†but beamed with pride when he became a “Papaâ€; these are “titles†that he ever took lightly, he would brag to anyone who listened. He would be the loudest cheerleader in their corner and most famously was known to tell each of them, when in doubt or need call 1-800-PAPA. As if his life wasn’t filled enough he was blessed to meet 3 great-grandchildren: Julian, Sophia and Brayden, in his heart and mind each, such a beautiful and full addition to his already amazing family.
Through the years David came into so many peoples’ lives and immediately welcomed them into his home and more so, his heart. He genuinely cared and loved for people and created memories that were unbeatable for all around him. He was of the Catholic faith and was actively involved in Saint Hubert Catholic Church in Hoffman Estates, Illinois before relocating to Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Henderson, Nevada where he was a 4th Degree Knight in Knights of Columbus. Before retirement, he was employed by the City of Chicago as well as many years working in politics. He was a proud American who also was a Marine whom up until the time of his death you could see him proudly wearing his Marine Corps hat talking about politics and America the country in which he loved, Ooh Rah!! He was a hard worker and enjoyed nothing more than time with his family and friends; no matter whether he knew you for a short time or forever, he made you feel welcome and a part of the family. David had several nieces and nephews as well as God children that he truly adored with all his heart. He never met a child that he didn’t love; he instantly became “Papa†for the children around him and was often found among the loudest laughter, piles of toys, Chuck E Cheese but most of all he made sure to find smiles and enjoyment in every moment.
David Duda will be remembered as a man who was a son, brother, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend and one hell of an amazing man who had a mind set and fight like no other. He was a true example of how to live your life to the fullest and we now salute him, Semper Fi Marine!
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at 10:00am at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Henderson, Nevada. Visitation will be held 3:00pm to 8:00pm on Tuesday, April 9, 2017. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Henderson, Nevada - Building Fund. |