William David Park

On Monday, July 14, 2025, retired U.S. Army Major William David Park passed away in his beloved hometown of Dallas, Texas. Born on February 8, 1946, to Curtis and Pansy Park, he spent his formative years in the Lakewood neighborhood of Dallas, where he attended local schools including Robert E. Lee Elementary, J.L. Long Junior High, and Woodrow Wilson High School. His academic journey continued as he explored various colleges, ultimately earning his bachelor's degree from Southern Methodist University. Driven by a desire for further knowledge, he pursued a Master’s in Business Administration from Webster University. The Army recognized his potential and encouraged him to enhance his education further, leading him to attend Command & General Staff College in 1983.

David valued hard work and an honest day’s labor. His first job was in middle school, throwing newspapers. From then on, he always had a job to support himself and his family. After graduating from SMU, he started work there as a recruiter. It was during that time, March 1970, that he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer, Second Lieutenant. His 20 years of service took him around the world from Ft Rucker, Alabama, Korea, Ft Hood, Texas, Germany, Ft Leavenworth, Kansas, and back to San Antonio, Texas.

After 20 years of a distinguished military career as a supply chain officer, he retired from the military. Major Park started over, entering civilian life and returning home to Dallas with his family. There, he dedicated 17 years to serving at Presbyterian Hospital, part of Texas Health Resources, before finally retiring in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of service to his country and commitment to his community.

He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Jane Oates, on August 3, 1968, and together they created a loving family, raising two wonderful daughters, Elaine and Michele. A devoted Christian and family man, he cherished quiet evenings at home, often filled with laughter thanks to his unique sense of humor. He had a knack for telling quirky jokes, one of which he shared with his youngest daughter, claiming that if you unscrew your belly button, your butt would fall off—a lesson she has carried with her ever since.

A proud grandfather, he also treasured spending time with his three beautiful granddaughters, Zoe, Maia, and Grace, bonding over their mutual affection for all things Minion-related.

His interests were diverse, ranging from reconnecting with old friends to hobbies like hunting, reading, watching classic Charlie Chan films or British mysteries, and discussing Bible verses with the Rev Bev. Every Wednesday, he looked forward to enjoying Mexican food with his friends, the “Wild Bunch.”

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Suzanne Nance, and his brother Curtis Eugene Park. He leaves behind his beloved wife, daughters, and his three granddaughters, along with a wonderful extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins, and many lifelong friends.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, July 26th, at 1:00 PM at Grove Hill Funeral Home 3920 Samuell Blvd., Dallas, Texas 75228. He will be laid to rest at a later date during a private family service at the DFW National Cemetery.

The family appreciates all the support received. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in his name. You can also honor his life by having regular check-ups. Early detection saves lives. We owe special gratitude to the medical staff of Texas Oncology and a heartfelt thank you to all of you who kept his spirits up by calling and sharing texts, videos, and emails.