Daniel R. Furdek

Daniel Robert Furdek, known affectionately to his friends and family as Captain Dan, 75, of Cudahy, Wisconsin, died peacefully in his home December 30, 2023.

Dan was born in Milwaukee in 1948 to Robert and Irene Furdek. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Christine.  Dan is survived by his wife Diane (Nee Rutkowski) Furdek, two daughters Laurie Bondar (Chad) and Amy Sadowski (Chad) and prized grandchildren, Tyler, Emilie, Jackson, Madelynn, Evan, and Clayton, and many dear friends.

Above all, Dan was a family man at heart. He was a dedicated husband to his wife of 53 years and adored the time spent with his daughters and grandchildren, imparting wisdom and sharing in their joys and triumphs. His role as beloved "Grandpa Dan" was one he embraced with joy and pride.  He also will be greatly missed by his loyal dog, Duchess.

Dan enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 19 and served honorably as a Military Police Officer during the Vietnam War. For his service, Dan earned multiple medals including National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Army Commendation Medal.

Aside from his family, Dan was deeply devoted to many veteran groups, including the Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Chapter One, Cudahy VFW Post 2895, and the Cudahy P.L.A.V. Post 26 where he served in an advisory role for 10 years, which included an integral role in the dedication of the Cudahy War Memorial in 1990. Dan was proud to be the 6000th veteran to join the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight on September 15, 2018, where he was humbled to meet former senator Bob Dole.  Dan was honored as Cudahy's Veteran of the Year in 2009.

Dan will be laid to rest at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery on January 25, 2024, at 11 AM with full military honors.  There will also be a Celebration of Life luncheon at the OliveTree Cafe, 3570 E. Puetz Ave. in Oak Creek from 12-4.  Lunch to be served at 1 PM.