John âJackâ R. Duda, Sr. 75, of Brookfield, beloved husband of Judith (Hambidge) Duda, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital on Tuesday, June 2nd. He was born in Holyoke, MA on April 25, 1940, son of the late John and Simone (VanMarche) Duda. He was a graduate of Western New England University with a degree in engineering. Jack was a Veteran of the Vietnam War, proudly serving as a pilot with the United States Air Force, flying F-86, F-100 and F-105 planes. He continued in his military service with the Air Guard, attaining the rank of Major. He retired as an airline pilot for United Airlines after 36 years flying DC-6, DC-7, DC-8, B727 and B747. He also owned and operated several area businesses including J&J Trucking, and Jet Rental. Jack was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He encouraged those he loved to pursue their goals and always believed in them. His faith in their abilities often gave them the push they needed. He was the patriarch of the family and his grandchildren were the light of his life. In addition to his cherished wife of 15 years, Judy, he will be sadly missed by his six children, John R. Duda, Jr. and wife, Martha, Judith Gerard and husband, Joseph, Justin R. Duda and wife, Candice, Pamela Holick and husband, Trever, Kristin Wilkins and husband, Billy, and Lindsey Roy and husband, Randy; his four grandchildren, Gabriel, Isabel, Skylar and Jaylen. He is also survived by his brothers, Larry and wife, Terri, James and wife, Gillian, and Philip and wife, Sandra; his sisters, Nancy Mangini and Linda Mandolesi and husband Steve and many nieces and nephews.
View Full Notice → John R. Duda – April 25, 1940 – June 02, 2015