David Ray (Wally) Pugh passed away on October 31, 2016, at the age of 55, following a long and courageous battle with Huntington’s disease. He was born and lived his life in the Kansas City, Missouri area. The Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a. m., Saturday, November 5, at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, Meyer and Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri. Visitation will be 6:00- 8:00 p.m. November 4, at McGilley State Line Chapel.
David was preceded in death by his father Dale Pugh and his paternal and maternal grandparents. He is survived by his mother Sharon Smith, stepfather Louis Smith, sister Lisa Nouri (Mansour), Jackie Metheny, son Jonathan David Pugh, and many family members. Special gratitude is expressed to Stephanie Metheny and Carla Cona.
David was a proud member of Pipe Fitters Local 533. The family is grateful for the continuous support provided by Pat Julo and Joe Bailey. He was blessed with many close friends from O’Hara High School and the University of Central Missouri. They were with him during his entire life’s journey and provided laughter, love, and support.
The family is indebted to the staff at Armour Oaks and Crossroads Hospice for providing care for David during his last years.
David had an unwavering commitment to Huntington’s Disease research and participated in eight years of clinical drug trials at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He has donated his brain to Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center to further Huntington’s Disease research.
He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by all the people who were touched by his presence and kindness.
Remembrances may be directed to KU Endowment for Huntington’s Disease in honor of David Pugh, at PO Box 928, Lawrence, KS 66044.
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