William C. Hudak (Bill) was born on December 19, 1933 in Akron, Ohio. He passed peacefully in his sleep on February 19, 2012 in the presence of his family. He is preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Black Hudak; his parents, Muriel Creighton Hudak and Rudolph Michael Hudak; his brother-in-law, Daniel Barthels. He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Devoy (David) and his son, Patrick Hudak (Cari); eight grandchildren, Joseph, Jeremy, Jon, Jamie and Austin Devoy and Bailey, Hunter and Carolyn Jill Hudak; brother, Dr. Thomas M. Hudak (Mary); brother-in-law, John Black (Marilyn); sister-in-law, Joanne Barthels; and nine nieces and nephews. Bill graduated from Stow High School in Stow, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University prior to moving to Arizona. He received a degree in Business Administration from the University of Arizona where he lettered in basketball. He was a major in the United States Army Adjutant General’s Corps. His career in real estate development and management began in Phoenix with Del E. Webb. Later, he moved to Houston where he served as Executive Vice President of the Gerald D. Hines Corporation. He returned to Phoenix in 1986 to continue working in real estate as an independent broker as well as working with Cuellar Realty. While he enjoyed a successful career, Bill’s greatest pleasure came from his family. In business, he served as an advocate and mentor for everyone who worked for him. He was a life-long networker and he will be remembered and missed by many. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 23rd between 6 and 8 pm at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 24, 2012 at 10 am at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Rd, Phoenix. Burial will follow the service at St. Francis Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street. The family respectfully requests that donations in lieu of flowers be sent to Hospice of the Valley, 1501 E. Flower St, Phoenix, AZ 85014 or the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale, Rose Lane Branch, 8250 E. Rose Lane, Scottsdale, AZ 85250.
Garth Cooley
I am so sorry to learn that Bill passed away. He was my godfather and I am forever proud to be his godson.
Although it has been many years since I had seen Bill, I recently spoke with him just a few months ago. He was so encouraging and expressed such charisma even when I knew he was struggling. Still, he knew exactly how I was doing and what I was up to. It was like no time had gone by since I was a kid!
When I was very young, “Uncle Bill” gave me a football jersey with COOLEY and the number “1” on it. I still remember this vividly and remember him calling me “Numero Uno” with his big smile and his warm heart – giving a five year old a huge boost of confidence.
I also have a memory in high school speaking with Uncle Bill. I learned so much about his love and devotion to his family as they recently been through a terrible fire and lost their wonderful dog. The way he spoke was always with such strength and confidence with his deep voice. What a wonderful person he was and what an excellent example and role model he was for me.
My thoughts and prayers are with Jennifer and Patrick and Bill’s brother, Tom as well as all their children. I have not seen any of you in decades, but my family I sincerely wish you comfort during this time of loss.
Garth, Julie, Grant & Jillian Cooley
Indianapolis, IN
Dee
The loss of a loved one can be so hard but our special memories help us to cope. I have found great encouragement when reading the beautiful words penned at Revelation 21:4,5. This scripture shows that there will be a time in the future, right here on earth, when tears of mourning and pain will be things of the past because, at that time death will be no more. Is that not wonderful! I hope this will comfort your family in this difficult time. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Elliot Prieur
Tom and the Hudak family:
to all, i was very saddened to learn earlier this week that my mentor and friend had passed away on February 19th. He was a straight forward, fair, loving person who had a profound impact on me. I will always remember him with respect and love.
My thoughts and prayers go with him and all of you.
God Bless,
Elliot