David Menard Obituary


David Walter Menard died on Feb. 5, 2013, in Dayton, Ohio, his home since 1977. Born in Elmhurst, Ill on May 5, 1936, he moved to Lombard, Ill in 1945, graduating from Glenbard High in 1954, then studied for a year at the U of Illinois at Navy Pier. In 1955 he followed his boyhood dream and joined the air force, serving as a maintainer of aircraft in Africa, Greenland, four European and five Asian countries, and six stateside postings. After retiring as a master sergeant in 1977, he continued his work on aircraft at the Air Force museum at Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton, later serving as an historian due to his encyclopedic knowledge of aviation history. Upon retirement in 1999, he devoted himself to the care of children by volunteering full-time and year-round at the NICU and ER of the Dayton Children's Hospital. His enthusiasm for "Riverdance" led to a passion for Irish step dancing, and he supported several Irish dance troupes. He lived his life in service to his country, his community, and children.
He leaves a brother Mike (Marita) from Madison, Wisc., six nieces and nephews, and five grandnephews. His other brother, Herbert James, preceded him in death in Nov. 2012.
Donations in his honor may be made to the Dayton's Children's Hospital, One Children's Plaza 45404.

Published by Suburban Life Publications on Feb. 23, 2013.
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for David Menard

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I am planning to reprint my book on the Northrop MX-324, and this book will carry on the cover this slogan: "Tribute to David Menard". I will explain in the foreword Dave's role in it.

Henry Matthews
Author/Publisher
HPM Publications

March 26, 2013

Dave-
If there was ANYTHING that I needed to know about the F-100, everyone knew who to contact. THE SOURCE! Dave Menard! His knowledge was so vast and correct, nobody every doubted him. In the realm of aviation authors, we all tried to aim for the quality that Dave had in his books. And his photographic collection of aircraft was the best. All of us aviation authors used Dave as a reference and a source. He was "THE MAN" to go to. What a great guy!! He was the best. We will sorely miss you, Dave - your friends, your neighbors, the aviation community, you fellow historians, etc. You are now piloting your Hun around the heavens, like the valkries of legend, to valhalla. No need to check six. You are CAVU from now on.

Terry Love

March 25, 2013

The world has lost one of its great aviation historians. As a man Dave was genuinely kind and funny, a true friend to so many. As a historian his quest for accuracy left all who had the honour to work with him in awe. His diligence to those whose memory he served was unmatched.

Personally, I will miss him terribly, his ability to pull my leg over being a 'Brit' brightened many a day. My thoughts are with his family. Godspeed old boy, godspeed.

Tim Callaway

March 25, 2013

DAVE, WE SURE DO MISS YOU HERE AT CHILDRENS. WATCH OVER US. YOU SURE ARE MISSED.

Susie Macko

March 2, 2013

Mr. Menard was a pen pal of mine during my youth, offering sage advice, stories of his life in the Air Force, and his own youth in the Chicago area as a young aviation enthusiast. I had recognized his name from the myriad aviation books he contributed to, and he was extremely helpful to speak with as the researcher at the US Air Force Museum. Mr. Menard always had a strong message of devotion to family and service before self. His influence inspired me to serve through the US Air Force. He will truly be missed as an exemplary historian of aviation, a great American, a generous servant, and a truly great man.

Mark S

February 28, 2013

Dave was known internationally for his contribution to the history of USAF military aviation. I for one will sorely miss him. Where can I go now for that expert help he was so ready to give? RIP.

Doug Gordon

February 22, 2013

Dave, You were a wonderful man and have done so much for so many people. I just know you are in heaven watching over all the children who were taken too soon... May u rest in peace

Joy Miller

February 22, 2013

David, I remember you coming in and holding my daughter so I could go get something to eat, or a shower... she would grin so big... and my friend's son, Stephen... he's taller than you were now... I know you're in Heaven playing with all the precious little angels... thank you for all you did here...

Tammy Compton

February 14, 2013

God bless you Dave. Put in a good word for the rest of us. You will be sorely missed down here.

Robert Dunham

February 13, 2013

Dave, rest in peace man. A great loss for all of us.

Netherlands

Henk Scharringa

February 13, 2013

Dave, While I did post earlier, I was in such shock , I didn't do justice to you. As always in our aviation arguments, I always got the last word.... this is my last word for you , dear friend.....Irish Funeral Prayer

God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms
around you and whispered “come to me.” With tearful eyes we watched you,
and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make
you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God
broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.
The best is what you are, buddy. Via Con Dios,, I will miss you so much Love Jeannette

jeannette remak

February 13, 2013

I am sorry for your loss. David was a good friend to our family. He took extra care for my girls. always had that big smile on his face. Childrens lost a great friend..

Christine House

February 12, 2013

I worked many years ago at the US Air Force Museum I remember Dave as a crusty warm man who alway had a smile for me. He has always been a good soul.
Rosann Patterson

February 12, 2013

We worked together for almost 10 years in the ED. You were family. My children grew up knowing you, and you were at their side through their illnesses and injuries. I remember several years ago when I was alone and going through a difficult time with two small children, and I came home from work, and my grass had been mown; you had snuck over when I was at work and had done this to help me out. You had such a generous heart, spirit, and always serving others. You always told me you were my biggest fan- but Dave- I never told you I was yours. Love you forever. May you rest in peace. You have made a difference in so many lives and you are such a role model.

Cathy Lewis

February 11, 2013

29 years years of hair-cuts and conversations. I will miss you Dave. You were a blessing to me and all those you came in contact with, truely the hands and feet of Jesus. You will be greatly missed.

Cherie Diehl

February 11, 2013

Mr. Menard,
I was only able to know you for a short time, but in that time you never failed to ask how I was doing or give me some useful advice. You truly are a great man and one that I will never forget.

Sean Collin Ray

February 10, 2013

Farewell Dave and rest assured you will be remembered for your dedication to the USAF and to the staff and children at Dayton Children's Hospital. You are and always will be a special person. God Bless.

Jim Gibler
USAF retired

February 10, 2013

We worked together for 7+ years at CMC. When the ED became hectic I could always count on your help. You said you had my six and you always did...Those lucky enough to know you well never doubted your generous heart. Whenever a member of your CMC family found themselves on hard times your generosity amazed me. I will never forget the Christmas you went with a group of us to shop for our Christmas family. You told us to get whatever the family needed and not worry about the cost. We had a blast shopping with you.
I learned early on not to ask your opinion if I did not want an honest answer...your insight was most helpful. You were my link to a time of life I loved and a man I don't see near enough (my Dad). I relished our conversations. I will miss you.
Love ya.
Valerie

Valerie Gibler-Ray

February 10, 2013

The days will never be the same here at CMC. It was always reassuring to pull in the lot and see Dave's truck. As I told him, in these hard and unsettling times is was so nice to come to work and be amazingly greeted by another who had no complaints about the pay, the long hours or the responsibilities. I want to be more like him and his positive outlook. It is because of the men and woman like you that my family continues to serve in the military. While he was disappointed in the direction of our country, he held strong in his faith and confidence and forever loved the USA, The Childrens Medical Center staff and patients. Dave my friend, your lessons and examples will live on forever. Thank you for your service to this country, CMC and thank you for the examples you have set for so many. Thank you for personally touching the lives of my family with your kind words.

February 10, 2013

I only knew Dave by his association and reputation with the Super Sabre Society of which I am a member - He was always there when the association called upon him for technical and historical information - He was a true aviation and military professional in every respect and held in high regard by our members - He will be sorely missed - When I read the other comments left in his guest book I was even more impressed - May the Good Lord Bless and Keep him -

Benjamin Dailey

February 10, 2013

When I first met Dave in restoration at the Air Force Museum, I knew his image and heart didn't match up. Dave was a friend that you could depend upon and he truely loved children. I remember many events when he help clean-up by collect aluminum cans for his babies at Children's. He will never be forgotten as he blessed the lives of so many who knew and loved him.

Marti Ventolo

February 9, 2013

I met Dave about 14 years ago while I was working in surgery and Dave was working in the Emergency Department. We helped each other on a project and have been friends ever since.
Dave has become a welcome constant in my life. We have worked every weekend together since 2006. Coming into work, being greeted by his smiling face and loving heart is something I now realize I took for granted.
Words cannot express the amount of love or the depth of this love that Dave had for his "CMC family" and we have for him. He is truly one of a kind and will never be forgotten.
I am going to miss our shared excitement over cafeteria spaghetti, our friendly political discussions, and our shared love of children. I will think of you every time I see bubbles being blown in the Emergency Department, a plane flying overhead, or see anyone sign their email with "Cheers".
You were a wonderful man that I feel blessed to have known and be considered an "honorary daughter". You led by example and I have been changed for the better, because I knew you.
Lots of Love!
Andrea

Andrea Zimmer

February 9, 2013

One of my earliest childhood memories ever is of a short, turbulent flight in a C-119 Flying Boxcar that my mom and I took to go see uncle Dave at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base on the island of Taiwan. 3 or 4 years old, I fell asleep on that bumpy troop carrier and remained asleep throughout the landing. I awoke legs propped up in the back seat of a jeep on the hot, wriggling tarmac, alone and bewildered, the rumble of jets all around. Suddenly above me appeared the upside-down face of uncle Dave greeting me - he plucked me out of the jeep and held me up - I was so happy to see him. It has always been throughout the years that, regardless of my age, I would feel like a little kid again whenever we would get together - shared stories from his world travels in that snappy service lingo of his and that infectious cheer, bright and blue as the sky.
I'm sure that his nieces and extended family have felt the same way. He had such a positive effect on so many people's lives.
Cheers, uncle Dave - I'll keep watching my 6

David Menard

February 9, 2013

May the God of all comfort be with the friends and family of David.

February 9, 2013

Megan Gaul

February 9, 2013

Dave, Lets take a trip back to Wheelus someday and work on the "Huns" in that sunshine.
Tom Cress

February 9, 2013

Dave and I had numerous conversations regarding the F-100,his historic background and my maintenance background seemed to work well together, he will be missed.

Pete Felts

February 9, 2013

Dave is the guy who put the heart in the F-100 so we could use it. Thanks to Dave the program was a success.
Long Time F-100 Driver: Everett Raspberry LTC (Ret) USAF

February 9, 2013

Dave & family. God has a new "Hun Driver". You are a blessing. Thanks for your service to our great country.
[Iowa Air Guard}

Keith Acheson

February 9, 2013

Since the Sixties I was impressed by his excellent photographs of contemporary aircraft en I regret that I never had the opportunity to meet him.
Willem Helfferich
Editor in Chief 'Onze Luchtmacht'. Magazine of the Royal Netherlands Air Force Association

Willem Helfferich

February 9, 2013

My book on the Northrop MX-324, the only detailed history ever published of this Project, was made possible by Dave.
You will never be forgotten.

Henry Matthews

February 9, 2013

Dave Menard.... I was exchanging mails with him only a few weeks ago.
Then, Dave had assisted my wife for the second time in getting some books for her and posted them to her in Australia.
I first communicated by letter with Dave at the Air Force Museum at WPAFB back in the mid-90's, as I wanted some information as to whether the U.S. Army Air Force had ever used a certain type of Pratt & Whitney engine in the South West Pacific Area of Operations during World War Two. It was Dave who answered by letter in his position as a Curator. Not only did he search the USAAF records from way back but he also researched the USN and USMC records and came up with the answer that I needed.
That led to Dave communicating about his interest and love for Judith Durham, the lead singer from "The Seekers", an Australian group of entertainers and he loved her voice. Then came the sending of the latest Judith Durham CD's as they were put on sale. Dave visited Sydney where Judith was performing and I obtained the tickets for him and advised him to let any Manager at the Theatre know that he had "come all the way from America to hear Judith"..... That got him backstage to meet her which thrilled him to bits.
I communicated with him many times since then, mainly about aviation and it is a shock to learn that he has left us.
David Billings
Nambour, Queensland, Australia.

David Billings

February 9, 2013

February 8, 2013

I met Dave in 1979 when I reported in to the Air Force Orientation Group as a modeler. Since then, he has been my go to guy when I have questions about 1950's aircraft. I am currently working on a XF-90 for the Air Force Museum and Dave was the one who donated the rare, valuable kit to them. It distresses me greatly knowing that he will never see it completed, but I do know for a certainty that he will be watching over my should as I finish the model. I can only pray it will meet the standards that Dave set for living life. No matter what he did, he set the bar very high. I am grateful for having known him and wish him peace.

Mission Complete. Shut 'er down Dave.

Mark Young

February 8, 2013

Nicole Menard

February 8, 2013

Every consolation of grace and peace to all of the family, but especially to you, Mike. May it be a long long time before any more sorrow. With love from the Victoria Victors, Ian and Cathy

Ian Victor

February 8, 2013

David was undoubtedly a unique character with a range of passionate interests and a willingness always to share his enthusiasm unhesitatingly with others. It was a genuine privilege to work with him on F-100 books and share a little of his unsurpassed knowledge of aircraft. Like so many others I shall miss his great generosity, humour and expertise.

Peter Davies

February 8, 2013

I was blessed to have worked with Dave at the Museum. He was an enormous help to me in many ways. After his retirement, he was also there for me when I had to take my children to the Emergency Room over the years. I will truly miss him.

Lonna McKinley, Manuscript Curator, National Museum USAF

Lonna McKinley

February 8, 2013

Dave was a good loyal friend who was a great worker and a man with the biggest heart. I will always remember him . He will be missed dearly. He is with all the children of God. Bless you

Frank McVay

February 8, 2013

He will truly be missed. Brought lots of smiles to lots of people at Dayton Children's
Rest in peace.

Diana Moeller

February 8, 2013

Dave was an Associate Member of the Super Sabre Society who contributed significantly to the accomplishment of our mission to preserve the history of the F-100 Super Sabre and the men who flew and maintained the aircraft. We knew him as "Mr. F-100" and called on him frequently to provide or verify historical information about our beloved "Hun" (short for Hundred, as in the F-100). Over 1,500 members of our society will miss Dave and his wealth of knowledge, of which he gave generously for the furtherance of our mission. Our condolences to the surviving members of the Menard family and friends of this man. In his own way, he was a Giant of Aviation, now flown west along with the aviators among that celebrated host of heroes. May Dave rest in peace. R. Medley Gatewood, Chief Information Officer, Super Sabre Society; Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.)

Medley Gatewood

February 8, 2013

Dave's early departure from us will leave a hole that none other will ever be able to fill. A one of kind, class act with a heart that was bigger than most. Enjoy the wings Dave, you earned them!

Eric Boehm

February 8, 2013

Dave, I have known you since 1969, we both wore USAF Blue in those days. In 1980 we became neighbors and in 1985 we are on the USAF Museum staff. My children grew up under your watchful eye and my grandchildren know "MR MENARD." Over the years we engaged in numerous sessions on airplanes, politics, or anything else that just happened to be a "hot" topic. Dave, you will be missed but your deeds and many, many contributions will be long-remembered.
"Keep the rubber-side down" my friend.
CAVOK MC/CC/JDC/KAC/KDC

February 8, 2013

"Flaky Uncle Dave" ... there is a dish of salt in our kitchen, awaiting your message, you C2C fiend. :) Dave I am truly blessed and honoured to have known you through family holidays and wonderful accounts of your heroic service in many ways. I'll miss you greatly but remember you fondly.

Dan Victor

February 8, 2013

I met Dave in 1979 when I joined the staff of the USAF Museum. To have known him for these 33 years has been an honor that carried with it a detailed education in military aviation history, and a lesson in living. Dave's death is a great loss to the aviation community, as well as to the volunteer community of which he was such an important part. He was modest, honest, direct, sometimes “crusty,” but had a caring heart as big as the universe. Although his departure leaves us temporarily in tears, the knowledge that such a good man was a part of our lives gives us joy in the goodness of mankind. Dave was a rare gem and a credit to all humanity. --Joe Ventolo

February 8, 2013

I have known Dave for about 3 years at Dayton Childrens. I sure wish I would have known him longer. What a remarkable and fun loving person! I always looked forward to seeing him at Childrens. We all miss him so much. What a loss but what a great impact he had on all our lives as well as USAF and war bird enthusiasts! We shared similar interests in politics as well as the Air Force as my late father was a retired Major. Dave will be remembered lovingly. Rest in Peace, Dave

Susie Macko

February 8, 2013

Dave always had a smile and very kind words. For 10 years I worked with him at CMC. He was the most generous man . He will always remain in my heart.

Anne Marie Baker

February 7, 2013

I life Dave and I were each other's Nemisis as many of you know. I always felt it was because of Dave being USAF and me being USN aviation. We both shared the same love of aircraft, and aviation in general. It saddens us all to see so many notable avaition persons pass in the last several years. There are still a fiew who shared this fine passion. I shall raise a glass and toast Dave's spirit. his dedication and yes his tenacity, he will be missed.

John M. Campbell Author, Archivist, Historian

February 7, 2013

You will be missed by many. You were a blessing to Dayton Childrens.

Cathy Cox

February 7, 2013

Dave was an amazing person! He always had so much love and kindness especially for children and family. He will be truly missed!!'

Kristy

February 7, 2013

So many memories I just don't know where to start. I will miss you but I know you will always be up there when I need to talk to you. Love you Dave and thank you for your service to our county and our community.

Lisa

February 7, 2013

He will be sorely missed.

jerry MIRACLE

February 7, 2013

Dave, you were a hell of a great man! Always took care of us. I remember seeing you after I quit working there and you asked after the girls. I appreciated that. You genuinely cared about all of us along with the patients and that made us care about you. I remember one time you didn't come in one morning. I was working with Lynn W. among others. We were so worried that we went to your house to check on you only to find out you were on one of your mini trips! Such great memories of you. You touched a lot of people and left a legacy that means so much more than anything material.

Melissa Kerlin

February 7, 2013

Celebrating a life well lived. I will cherish the memories forever.

Henry Blecha

February 7, 2013

You were a blessing to Dayton Children's. you gave so many families comfort in difficult times. God speed Dave.

February 7, 2013

David Menard:

A helpful, generous, loving and, I believe, sentimental American of Irish descent.He loved kids, his country and aircraft in that order. And, I have known 100s of vets like him.

Please say hi to the Father for me , Dave. Pray for me, also. I know you are at His right hand and have His ear.

Godspeed!

Patrick Leddy

February 7, 2013

sarah miller

February 7, 2013

Dave's kindheartedness, friendly and outgoing spirit, as well as his "bubbly' personality throughout the ED and all of Dayton Children's, will be greatly missed. Dave had a passion for being of service to others from his military days right up his end days. Never asking or expecting anything in return. Rest in Peace, my friend.

Joyce

February 7, 2013

Dave made this world a better place. I will cherish my memories and never forget his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his Country, his community, and his friends. He was truly a special soul.

Charlotte Slader

February 7, 2013

Dave, you will be so greatly missed by so many people. You have been a blessing in my life. I remember when I first met you over 16 years ago during my pregnancy with my son Connor. You never forgot it either as you constantly laughed and reminded me of that day. I know Heaven is blessed to have you. You were an angel here on earth. I will miss your call every friday to offer words of encouragement. One day we will meet again in heaven and have many laughs. I saw in you unconditional love and giving. Such a great example. I will miss you greatly.

Donna Reichert

February 7, 2013

I knew Dave since 1998 when I was a PCA at Dayton Children's. As I have gone through medical school, residency and now a practicing physician, Dave always had words of encouragement, congrats, and a couple "way to go, Richard!!".

He was a gentle and humble man with a ginormous heart and wonderful soul. He had a spirit about him that embodied kindness and giving.

Dave, thank you for your kind and encouraging words to me through the years. Thank you for your long service to our nation. Thank you for your long service to the children and community.

Thank you for being there. Thank you for being you.

We will miss you, but never forget you.

Richard Turner

February 7, 2013

Fair seas and calm winds my friend you will be missed

Larry

February 7, 2013

I have so many memories of Dave...sharing Air Force stories and when he kindly bought tickets to RiverDance for some of us...a very generous man! His memory will live on....

leanne Tupper (Crooks)

February 7, 2013

Fair Seas and Calm Winds my friend you were a good kind hearted soul and you will be missed by many.

Larry Van Dyke

February 7, 2013

In all my years at Monogram, I came to love and respect Dave.. just an all time nice guy who loved everything with wings and little kids.. never asked for anything from this world, but, gave so much!! Somewhere above is a spectral F-100F with Dave riding in the back seat telling the stock puller all about his "ride".. GODSPEED Menard!!!

Bob Johnson

February 7, 2013

Dave is probably browbeating St. Peter right now about the radio call letters on God's Gulfstream being painted in the wrong shade of black.

Cranky. Crusty. Difficult. Feisty. A relentless nitpicker: Probably helped more people in the aviation and military history communities than anyone. Knew more about Air Force aircraft than anybody. A wonderful heart and a good mind: Thoughtful. Kind. Had no children but loved children. Found a calling as a volunteer in hospitals. Cared deeply about all of us.

In 1976, the Air Force held an exhibit on the Washington Monument grounds. Using the nitpicking skills I'd learned from a steady correspondent, I pointed out that the serial number on the tail of a display B-1A bomber model was the wrong number. A guy in Class A blues who was part of the exhibit dragged me aside and said he'd been trying to get them to paint the right number on it. "I'm a historian myself," he said. I looked at his nametag (since then, inexplicably, no longer a part of the Air Force uniform, discarded along with the term Class A). His nametag told me that he was the David W. Menard with whom I'd been corresponding since the 1950s. He was the correspondent who'd taught me the nitpicking skills.

That was our first face-to-face meeting although we'd been corresponding since about 1955. (That 1976 meeting led to my attending a slide show at Jack Morris's house that night. That was where I met Marty. I'd been collecting black and white photos of airplanes for decades; it had never occurred to me that people might take Kodachrome slides of them).

When we were both airmen second class, or E-3s (another term since discarded), Dave and I had letters published in the same issue of Air Pictorial.

Dave made a unique contribution to the profession of aerial arms and to the literature and pictorial history of it.

Robert F Dorr

February 7, 2013

A gentle bear of a man who could hold the tiniest of lives with love.

February 7, 2013

Dave was always willing to share his knowledge of USAF aviation and draw on his deep knowledge of his favorite jet, the F-100 Super Sabre. I made a point to stop by the museum, whenever I was in Dayton on USAF duty, to talk with Dave about aircraft history. His service to the USAF, the Air Force Museum and the other groups will always be remembered.
Smooth landings, Dave

Bill Strandberg

February 7, 2013

Enjoyed working with Dave at CMC in the ER. He had a kind-hearted, gentle spirit who could make anyone smile when he entered a room. You will be truely missed.

Kathy Quigley

February 7, 2013

David always had a kind word of encouragement and a smile on his face.He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Mindy Allen

February 7, 2013

Dave was one of Gods miracles. He had a memory and a huge heart that helped many people. He will be truly missed.

Jeff F.

February 7, 2013

May God bless you in your time of grief.

Hugh Gilmartin

February 7, 2013

He was my good friend , colleague and fellow Riverdance lover. I will miss him intensely.

Jeannette Remak

February 7, 2013

Dave was and always will be a legend in the community of aviation historians, always willing to help, especially with photographs from his vast collection.

I'll never forget the first time I met him. It was at the US Air Force Museum, about 1976 or so, and I was there with a pal who already knew him and introduced me to him. We were outside, and the Museum had just finished restoring its H-19 for display. Dave had worked on the restoration, and gave us a guided tour of it, but complained all the while about how and why he DEFINITELY DID NOT LIKE HELICOPTERS! I think that was the first time I heard a helicopter described as "an aircraft inherently designed to fling itself apart in midair," and it was Dave who described it as such.

Godspeed, Dave.

Michael McMurtrey

February 7, 2013

Will miss his spontaneous visits to the buyer's office at the museum. Kind, gentle-hearted man. Que Dios lo tenga en Su gloria.

Vilma

February 7, 2013

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