Walt Alan Dudley, Sr.

DUDLEY Sr., Walter “Alan”, age 85, of Kettering, OH, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was born on January 2, 1939, to the late Walter Augustus Dudley and Betty (nee Sites) Dudley, in Dayton, OH.   

Walt was a proud 1957 graduate of Miamisburg High School and went on to pursue higher education at the University of Dayton, graduating in 1968 with a B.S. in Physics. In 1959 he began a career as a nuclear physicist at the Monsanto Mound Lab facility. He dedicated many years to his work, even contributing to the Apollo 11 mission by having his signature grace equipment left on the moon.
 
 Following his impactful tenure at Mound Lab, Walt transitioned to Universal Technologies at Wright- Patt Airforce Base from 1992-2001.  In addition to his long career in government contracting he was a longtime employee of Kroger, most notably 1978-1985 and 2001-2022. He was known for his strong work ethic and love for staying active, whether through his professional endeavors or his passion for playing pool at the Latham Senior Center.
 
 Aside from his work life, Walt was deeply involved in his community, coaching youth softball and baseball teams, and even serving as the commissioner of Little League baseball in Miamisburg. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his children's activities, from being a Cub Scout leader to Scout Master of Cub Scout Pack 206.
 
 In his free time, Walt enjoyed indulging in science fiction novels from authors like James Patterson, playing cards with his grandchildren, and engaging in lively table tennis matches with his family, often displaying his witty and mischievous side.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Betty Jo Murphy, Marjorie Grim, Paula Wolf, and Lois Marshall; first-wife, Wanda “Aleta” (nee Stracensky) Dudley.

Walt is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Vicky (nee Poffenberger) Dudley; children, Walt (Kathy) Dudley Jr., Wanda (Tom Jr.) Van Zant, Eric Dudley, and Erin Emmel; stepsons, Jeff (Connie) Vann and Scott Davidson; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; mother-in-law, Dorothy Poffenberger; brother-in-law, Kevin (Patricia) Poffenberger; sister-in-law, Lisa (Kirby) Anderson; and numerous extended family and friends.   

A visitation will be held from 10-11am on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd. Kettering, OH 45429, with a service to follow at 11am. Burial at Byron Cemetery. A livestream of the service will be available via Routsong’s YouTube channel. If desired donations can be made to Cold War Patriots. The family would like to thank everyone who was involved in his care.