Richard "Dick" Matthew Duesing, fortified by the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, died at home Sunday, September 1, 2024. He was the loving husband of Pamela C. Duesing; the revered father of Christopher R. (Sarah Anne), Caroline E. (Benjamin) Krocheski, and Matthew M.; and the adoring grandfather of Luke, John, Mary Anne, Margaret, Elisabeth and Catherine Duesing and Charlotte Krocheski. He was the beloved brother of Philip M., Raphael L., Jr., Thomas F., and Paul J. Duesing.
Born May 22, 1953, Dick was raised in Big Lake, TX by his parents Bette Ann and Raphael L. Duesing. He graduated valedictorian from Reagan County High School and attended The United States Air Force Academy, graduating in the Class of 1975 with a degree in engineering. His lifelong love of learning spurred him to earn his MBA from Webster University. He and Pamela were married August 14, 1982 at St. John Bosco in Lakewood, WA. He was stationed at McChord and Altus Air Force Bases flying C-141's and Kelly Air Force Base flying C-5's throughout his 30 year career with the Air Force and Reserves. He served missions in Desert Shield and Desert Storm receiving the Air Force Commendation Medal while flying with the 68th Airlift Squadron. Dick also enjoyed a 31-year career flying the 727, 737, 757, and 767 for Delta Airlines.
Dick's love and dedication to his family was evident in all he did. He loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends, sharing or listening to a good long story. Dick loved playing with his grandchildren and cheering them on at their soccer games and other endeavors. His incredibly strong faith and devotion to Our Blessed Mother sustained him throughout his life and inspired trips to many churches throughout the world, including the Holy Land and an anticipated pilgrimage to Medjugorje this year. He was also an active member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and the Knights of Columbus, where he could be found on any given Friday of Lent helping with the fish fry.
Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, September 19, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 8500 Cross Mountain Trail, San Antonio, TX 78255 with visitation at 10:30 A.M. The Mass of Christian Burial for Dick Duesing will follow at 11:00 A.M. at the church. Interment with military honors will be at 1:15 P.M. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78209. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, Masses are preferred or memorial tributes can be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.
