Joseph Michael Dundale

Joseph had a long, exciting life and career. Starting early in life at the age of 15, he worked summers with the Idaho Forestry Service building bridges and mastering the logging industry. The following year he served with the Army youth program in the 12th Battalion Field Artillery which was to prepare him for the US Army. He, at the age of 19, decided instead to join the Navy where he served and became a decorated Naval Vet including the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was one of the original plank owners for the USS Plunkett DD431 which with his help earned 5 battle stars in WWII. Later he was transferred to the Pacific Theater WWII where he was in numerous combat missions with the VT305 Squadron, at this time became Chief Warrant Officer. He was also recognized for his outstanding athletic abilities on the football field and the boxing ring. After leaving the Navy in 1946, he joined the Air Force and worked at McGuire AFB in Ft Dix, NJ. He received his degree in engineering from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. He served 30 years as an Air Safety Inspector with the FAA until his retirement. He was fluent in 6 languages. He remained active in retirement by participating with the VFW and American Legion. He kept active with his real estate license and insurance licenses.

He is predeceased by his parents, Michael Dundala and Mary Portpinka Dundala, (who migrated from Austria/Hungary in the late 1800's), brother Johnny Dundala, sisters, Sr. Mary Lorretto Dundala and Ann Dundala Johnson, son, Brian Dundale and brother-in-law William Johnson.

He is survived by his adoring family, wife Katherine Brock Dundale, children Mark M Dundale, Todd M Dundale, David D Phillips, Sharon P Weaver, daughters-in-law Mary L Dundale, Virginia Brinkman, Isolina Phillips, grandchildren, Denis L Weaver, Jr., Joseph M Dundale, Cameron M Dundale, Lisa M Weaver, brother-in-law, Peter H Brock, sister-in-law Amie Dreyfuss, granddaughter-in-law Jennifer Weaver, great grandsons Dillon Mothershed and Casey Mothershed.