Donald Rae Dudas of Du Quoin

Donald Rae Dudas, 84, of Du Quoin - known by family and many friends as "Beebe," an affectionate nickname given to him by his mother that he wore since childhood and that matched his cheerful, abundant personality - passed away on the evening of Sunday, Aug. 2, 2020, at Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin.

Mr. Dudas was born there on Nov. 12, 1935, the son of Alex and Martina Dudas. In 1953 he graduated from Du Quoin Township High School after playing basketball and baseball there. He was awarded the first USAF ROTC and studied mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois in Champaign, where the Bronze Tablet bears his name for graduating at the top of his class of 1957.

He also earned a graduate degree at Stanford University in California.

He married his high school sweetheart Diana, nee Dennis, of Du Quoin, in 1955, and she survives.

Together they made a new home in Valparaiso, Florida, where Mr. Dudas served four years as an Air Force officer.

After leaving the service, he started a fulfilling career as a civilian engineer for the U.S. Department of Defense at Eglin Air Force Base. Many of the programs were highly classified and changed the way current conflicts are waged.

He retired in 1995 and enjoyed a life of leisure.

Trains, airplanes and race cars were a fascination he shared with his surviving son David (Darcy) Dudas of Mesa, Arizona; grandson David R. (Renee) Dudas of Gilbert, Arizona; and more recently two great-grandsons, Alec and Hal.

He kept a close lifelong bond with his big brother Daniel L. Dudas, of La Jolla, California and with his little sister, Amanda C. Lewis, of Columbia, Illinois. He loved his three nieces and five nephews.

Private graveside services were held Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020 at the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin with the Rev. Jim Endsley officiating.

Military graveside rites were conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion.

Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.