David Allan Czudek

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of David “Dave” Allan Czudek, who left us on September 28, 2026, at the age of 71. Dave was born on December 26, 1954, in Pennsylvania.

Dave Czudek lived his life with determination, generosity, faith, and a deep love for his family and others. From an early age, he understood the value of hard work and the importance of taking care of those he loved.

Dave began working at just nine years old, packing groceries and using his earnings to help his single mother with rent and food. After moving from Pennsylvania to Louisiana during his sophomore year, he attended and graduated from Pickering High School, where he played sports while working part-time at the commissary and an auto craft shop. He later earned several technical certifications in mechanical trades.

After graduation, Dave worked briefly at Fontenot Chevrolet and later in motor fuel at Fort Polk before pursuing his dream of owning a business. With the help of a local businessman who gave him his start in 1976, Dave built a successful mechanic and towing business that eventually employed six mechanics and served Fort Polk, local law enforcement agencies, and the surrounding community. After 42 years of hard work providing for his family, Dave retired in 2018.

Dave's faith and service to others were important parts of his life. A devoted member of Grace Church in DeRidder, he served as a doorkeeper and in many other areas of ministry. He greeted people with a smile, a laugh, and a piece of candy, earning him the affectionate nickname "The Candy Man." Dave loved God, loved people, and was always willing to lend a hand.

Dave was also a dedicated member of the DeRidder Alcoholics Anonymous group and celebrated more than 43 years of sobriety. He shared his journey openly and served as a sponsor and source of encouragement to many others on their path to recovery.

One of Dave's greatest joys was bass fishing. Whether fishing a tournament or simply relaxing on the water, he was happiest with a fishing rod in his hand. He especially treasured fishing with his children and grandchildren, spending time at the family camp, and competing in the annual Skeeter Owners Tournament at Lake Fork, Texas.

Dave had a larger-than-life personality and a contagious laugh.

He loved people, loved a good joke, and was often the life of the party. If he told a joke once, chances were everyone would hear it again-and Dave would laugh just as hard every time.

Above all, Dave loved his family. To his children, he was Daddy—the man they knew would always have their backs, solid as a rock and steady to the end. To his grandchildren, and even their many friends who became part of his extended family, he was simply "PawPaw." To his wife, Debbie, he was a devoted husband who made certain she knew she was the love of his life.

His family will forever carry with them his laughter, strength, faith, stories, and unconditional love.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Debra Czudek; his children, David Czudek and wife Alyssa, Susan Dauzat and husband Brody, Michael Czudek and wife Layna, Brittany LaCaze and husband Philip; and his brother, Carl Czudek. He is also survived by his 15 grandchildren: Bryson Czudek, Ariana Victor, Summer Victor, Kaden Czudek, Brooklynn LaCaze, Jacen Czudek, Blake Czudek, Londyn Czudek, Skylar LaCaze, Shelton Czudek, Ashlynn LaCaze, Naddalynn Victor, Jameson Dauzat, Madyn Czudek, and Myka Czudek; and two great-grandchildren, Dason Inboden and Lekota Czudek and a host of other family and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Mulvihill, and her husband, Michael.

Dave spent his life working hard, loving his family, serving God and his community, helping others, and enjoying the simple things a day on the water, a good joke, and time surrounded by those he loved. His greatest legacy is the family he cherished and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Grace Church in DeRidder, LA. The funeral service will be held Friday, October 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM, also at Grace Church. Pastor George Lee Glass will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Aaron Grant, Lance Grant, Charlie Grant, Kevin Choat, Wayne Streets, David Cooley, David Perkins, Theron Pfantz. Honorary pallbearers will be Chris Duhon and Dr. Anderson Stricklind. Burial will follow the service at Rosepine Cemetery in Rosepine, LA.