Remembering the life of Dave Duda: Former director, SVP, CNO, COO
We remember and honor the life of Dave Duda, who spent nearly 30 years with Riverside Healthcare, beginning as Director of Mental Health and becoming Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
The following is Dave’s obituary, with information on services.
David Duda lived with authenticity, generosity, and a big-hearted presence that filled every room. Born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and raised on a farm along the Wisconsin River, Dave came from a family full of character. His father, Henry, was a pig farmer, county sheriff, Golden Gloves boxer, and owned local nightclubs with Dave’s beloved mother, Kathryn. Hard work was his foundation, and even as a child, Dave was the planner and creative spark among his siblings, always organizing, always imagining.
He earned his Bachelor’s of Nursing degree in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and his Masters of Science in Nursing from Rush Medical College, while working at Rush University Medical Center as team leader of the Mental Health Unit. Dave carved his own path in the medical world and built a remarkable career in healthcare. At Riverside Healthcare, he spent nearly 30 years, beginning as Director of Mental Health and becoming Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer. He also previously directed the Azzarelli Medical Clinic. Dave supported patients, staff, and his community with both vision and compassion.
Work was only a part of Dave’s story. He lived fully. Dave hosted big family gatherings, played ’70s music loud, loved a good crime or reality show, cheered on the Bears, and enjoyed a delicious Polish meal. He made space for laughter even on the hardest days. He had a deep love for his dog, Toby, cared for chickens at home in Manteno, and grew cucumbers, tomatoes and flowers in his garden. Dave found joy in simple routines – coffee in the pool house, a phone call with family, time on the river with Kevin, or a Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned in hand as the sun set.
He moved easily between worlds: suits and strategy by day, tending his garden and animals at night. He brought fun into everything, even performing in benefit skits with his fellow executives—including once dressing as a member of The Partridge Family (a one-of-a-kind legacy!). He had a generous spirit, often giving quietly and without recognition. People have overwhelmingly shared how Dave supported their career paths and life decisions – not just family and friends, but even strangers – always ready with advice, encouragement, or a helping hand. He simply showed up – again and again – for the people he loved.
Dave passed away at his home in Manteno and is survived by his family he loved dearly: Kevin Bryant, sisters Suzanne (Jeff) Riegel, Sandy (Ron) Roth, and Paulette Duda; sister-in-law Cathy (Ronnie) Duda; brother Danny (Anne Marie) Duda; and many more family members and dear friends including Carole, Chris, Tom, Rose Marie, Erika and so many more. He is preceded in death by his mother Kathryn, whom he absolutely adored; his father, Henry; brothers, Ronnie and Kevin; and his beloved friend, Susie Q.
Though his final season was marked by illness, Dave faced it with quiet courage. He didn’t want to leave the life he built—full of people, purpose, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of care, generosity, and the reminder to always make room for celebration, connection, and community. If you know him, you know that. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably been beautifully affected by Dave’s kindness and generosity in some way. He touched so many hearts.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to River Valley Animal Rescue on Dave’s behalf. Also, honor Dave in how you live life: enjoy a sunset, gather your people, turn up the music, give to others and toast to life; all of which we hope he is doing now with his loved ones in heaven.
I hope that someday we’ll get to see him there, and we can sit together and reminisce among the flowers. Until then, he is still so loved and deeply missed.
With love, Katie Sue and family.
Visitation and church service will be held on Thursday, July 17th at United Church of Christ, 187 W First S St, Chebanse, IL 60922. Visitation will be from 2:30 to 4 p.m. with service directly following from 4 to 5 p.m.
Arrangements are by Schreffler Funeral Homes, Kankakee.
Please sign his guestbook at schrefflerfuneralhomes.com.
