John David Dlugosz

John David Dlugosz was born to Clara and John Dlugosz on August 14, 1942 in South Bend, IN. He graduated from St Joseph High School and went on to attend Notre Dame University. John proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966. He received his MBA at University of Indiana and earned his CPA license after he moved to Texas in 1976. He met Helen Plonski in the church choir and they were married on June 12, 1965 at St. Adalbert Catholic Church in South Bend IN. He spent 38 years at The Associates, starting as an accounting clerk and worked his way up to VP of Corporate Planning.

John's most memorable birthday was his 3rd birthday. He received a red firetruck, there was dancing in the streets, ticker tape parades and huge celebrations everywhere. He was crushed when he found out it was also the day WWII ended. He loved to go to the movie theaters, especially for double features and often went with his mother. Together they would read about the movie star’s lives and spend time together. John particularly liked John Wayne movies, especially El Dorado and Rio Bravo.

Nicknamed Johnny, JD and Dugan, he loved sports and was a fan of both Notre Dame and the Chicago Cubs. He also enjoyed practicing Polish holiday traditions and was a member of the Polish National Association (PNA) as well as the Charters for CPA, American Legion, an Eagle Scout and an active member of St Joseph Men’s Association. While he was in the Air Force working as a radar operator, he got to report the first sighting of Santa Claus. He said that gave his family special privileges so they got their presents early and he always got the most. John's favorite phrase was “Pity” spoken in a condescending British manner. One of his favorite stories was how the serial killer that taught him how to drive would speed all the way to the pigeon races every day all summer and never got a speeding ticket until the day school started in the fall.

A charitable man, John delivered meals on wheels and gave blood every chance he could because he had a rare blood type. He loved going to National Parks, especially Yosemite, and spending time reading in his home office, going to museums, going to the movies and playing cards. His main goal for retirement was to spend time with his grandchildren and family and to travel.

John is preceded by his parents John A. Dlugosz and Clara Dlugosz.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Helen Dlugosz of Frisco, TX; son, John M. Dlugosz and his wife Tao of Allen, TX; daughter, Jennifer Surach of Plano, TX; grandchildren, Daniel C. Surach Jr of Addison, TX and Patricia Surach of Plano, TX; and his cat, Domino.