Michael David Dudzik

Michael D. Dudzik (1961 – 2025) was born in Rhode Island. He graduated from St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, received his Bachelor of Science from Cornell University (where he became a member of Kappa Delta Rho) and his Master of Arts from the University of Baltimore. Michael most recently was a Freelance Graphic Designer after many years as Senior Graphic Designer at the National Academies Press where he won many awards for publications design and for Teamwork and Group Distinguished Service. A record of his accomplishments can be found on his website www.mygraphiceye.com

Michael loved walking in nature (frequently photographing what he saw), spotting birds (especially eagles and owls), mushrooms and reptiles, fishing in Maine, tasting at NY wineries and meaderies, listening to jazz, and appreciating clouds and thunderstorms. He spent many years acting on stage and films, including one that played in the Smithsonian on a subway car. Michael was known for folding origami to hand out as gifts, doing puzzles (crossword and otherwise), making 'doggie biscuits' and 'straighties' and collecting minerals and gemstones. He also worked with our aunt to comprehensively research Dudzik family ancestry. Michael fought valiantly against cancer but cancer won.

Michael is survived by siblings Stephen and his wife Lequan, Robert and his wife Christi and their son Robert, Karla and her daughters Emma and Audrey, and Pamela, as well as numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his brother Kenneth and parents Francis and Kathleen Dudzik. He also leaves behind many dear friends. A memorial celebration will be held in Virginia. Michael's ashes will be scattered in Ithaca, NY and in Maine at a private family ceremony, joining his brother Kenneth to be fishing together forevermore.

Donations in his memory can be made to either the Cornell Lab of Ornithology or the National Trust for Historic Preservation, two organizations he supported in his life (please indicate that the gift is in memory of him).