David Joseph "DJ" Bludau

1954 - 2012

David Joseph "DJ" Bludau obituary, 1954-2012, Victoria, TX

FUNERAL HOME

Rosewood Funeral Chapel - Victoria

3304 Mockingbird Ln

Victoria, Texas

David Joseph Bludau Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 16, 2012.

David Joseph "DJ" Bludau, 58, of Victoria, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 16, 2012, after a courageous 2 year battle with brain cancer.

He was born on January 13, 1954, in Hallettsville, Texas, to Hubert and Ethel Claus Bludau. He married Joyce Zissa on September 25, 1976, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum, Texas. He was a member of Our Lady of Victory Cathedral.

David was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who had great faith in God and a strong work ethic. He cherished spending time with his loving family. He loved the outdoors, working in his yard, hiking, camping, and attending The University of Notre Dame and Texas Tech University football games. When asked if he needed anything, his standard reply was "a few kind words."

He worked for Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad for 36 years as a trainman. He was a devoted member of the United Transportation Union serving as Local Chairman of Lodge 953 for 25 years, a Legislative Representative for 19 years and serving most recently as Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Texas Legislative Board. He was a Eucharistic minister for Our Lady of Victory Cathedral and a member of the Knights of Columbus. David was a member of the Board of Directors of the Corpus Christi Southern Pacific Credit Union, and served as an adult leader for Boy Scout Troop 368.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughters, Tiffany Juett and husband, Justin of Victoria, and Vanessa Bludau of Dallas; son Brandon Bludau and wife, Brigid of Houston; brothers, Carl Bludau and wife, Rudie Kay of Victoria, Everett Bludau and wife, Pam of Hallettsville; sisters, Janet Hornischer and husband, Ronnie of Hallettsville, Joan Rodgers and husband, Luke of Conroe; granddaughter, Kadence Juett of Victoria; father-in-law, Julius Zissa of Yoakum, and sister-in-law, Janie Fitzgerald and husband, Mike of Telferner.

He is preceded in death by his parents and mother-in-law, Mary Zissa.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm Thursday, October 18, 2012, at Rosewood Funeral Chapels. A Rosary will be recited at 7 pm.

Funeral services will be at 10 am Friday, October 19, 2012, at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral, Rev. Msgr. John Peters officiating. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Tim Bludau, Mike Fitzgerald, Jr., Steve Young, Nunzio Randazzo, Robert Sugarek, Tyler Gray, Scott Kuester, and David Pagel.

Honorary pallbearers will be Connie English, Jerry Basinger, Larry Bumpurs, retired and current members of United Transportation Union Local 953, and current and retired employees of Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad in Bloomington hub.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the rehabilitation staff at Warm Springs Specialty Hospital, and to Accolade Hospice for their dedicated care during his illness.

Memorials to MD Anderson Cancer Center, Glioblastoma Cancer Research, PO Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
Honorary pallbearers will be Connie English, Jerry Basinger, Larry Bumpurs, retired and current members of United Transportation Union Local 953, and current and retired employees of Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad in Bloomington hub.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the rehabilitation staff at Warm Springs Specialty Hospital, and to Accolade Hospice for their dedicated care during his illness.

Memorials to MD Anderson Cancer Center, Glioblastoma Cancer Research, PO Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
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Not sure what to say?

October 2, 2013

Tyler Gray

I feel it is important that I pass along my thoughts on DJ.

I want you to know that I feel honored to have known David. He was truly the most selfless person I have ever met. He had a knack for doing the right thing for the right reason. He commanded respect with a calm even resolve and charm that disarmed most contentious situations. He was a mentor to me and I will go forward in my professional and personal life using the example he has set. He always had the right advice at the right time. He was extremely proud of his family and when we traveled for union functions the majority of our conversations related to our families. The day he called me to tell me about the cancer, I distinctly remember him turning the conversation back to me and how my family was. I thought for a second about telling him this was about him now, but that was not what he wanted to hear. That was not who he was. He cared about other people and I appreciated that.

I thank you for allowing him to touch my life.

November 4, 2012

Stacey Petrich

Bludau Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I was the ringbearer in David and Joyce's wedding, and David's grandmother (Hilda Petrich Claus) was my grandfather's sister (William Petrich). My dad, Howard, who is originally from Hallettsville passed away last Monday, October 29th. I saw David's obituary when I was double-checking my dad's. My dad had cancer too. I read that David enjoyed watching Texas Tech football games. I played for Texas Tech from 1990-1993. I know you have the wedding picture, but I added one to the gallery. I'm the little dude with blond hair holding the pillow.
In addition to the wedding, I remember David well from my days in Hallettsville. He was always giving me a hard time when I would see him at Timm's Grocery Store wanting me to make the fire truck siren sound out loud in the store. Good memories of David and his mom and dad.
My heart is with you as I am experiencing similar pain.

Posted by Stacey Petrich

October 31, 2012

My prayers are with david,s family. I was one of david,s crew dispatcher in the 90,s. He was always so pleasant and nice to me. I will miss him but i know he is with our Lord and Saviour now and is safe. May God Bless all of his Family. Wanda Carter Carbajal

October 27, 2012

Bobby Saenz

My deepest condolences to all of the Bludau family for your loss. I have so many pleasant memories of DJ. He was a very good friend and co-worker. I always looked forward to seeing him at work, cause I knew he would a have a smile and a complement for me. To the Bludau family, especially my dear friends Carl and Everett, may God Bless you and watch over you during this very difficult time.

October 22, 2012

Rocky Beaudoin

Our deepest sympathy to your family. I have known him for nearly 40 years. A great person, one of the best railroad guys I've worked with and well liked by all.

October 21, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bludau family. Our hearts ache for your loss. We are so sorry that we couldn't be there but we are in Houston undergoing treatments at MD Anderson. May God bless each one of you. Lex and Madonna Painter

October 20, 2012

Joyce, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of grief. May God bless you and hold you up as you celebrate Davids life. Bud and Dorothy Sappington

October 19, 2012

Dorothy Bujnoch

Please accept my sincere sympathy on the loss of your loved one. My prayers are with you at this sad time. Dorothy Bujnoch

October 19, 2012

We are so sorry about your loss. Ellis and myself had a wonderful experience with him as we traveled in Fatima and Lourdes. He had so much strength and we enjoyed him so much. Ellis is still battling his liver cancer and we cherish every day we are together. Much love to you and we know he is with our heavenly father in peace. Love, Ellis and Karin Glueck

October 19, 2012

William Fishbeck

Condolences to a brave family of a brave man.

October 19, 2012

Anthony Ludwig

Our deepest sympathy to the Bludau families from ours.
May God bless you all.

October 19, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss. Your family will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark & Jane Baxmann (Sugarland, TX)

October 18, 2012

Lucy Simmons

Joyce so sorry to hear of your loss. My son has brain and liver cancer. God be with you.

October 18, 2012

Stuart Schroeder

I am truly said to learn of DJ's passing. He was a kind person and a great railroader. David always stopped by the dispatching office when he was in Spring to say hello. I always liked working with him. I knew that when he was on board a train, that there was a concientous dependable conductor on board.

October 18, 2012

Mary Ponder

It was always a joy to see David when he worked into Houston and came to the SP-T&L UTU General Committee Office, beginning in the 1970's. Through the years he was a credit to the Organization and dedicated to representing fellow workers with integrity. Kindest regard is extended to his wonderful family in this loss.

October 18, 2012

Frank and Mildred Targac

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

October 18, 2012

Cathy Brown

Joyce, my thoughts and prayer are with you and your family. God will see you thru this difficult time.

October 18, 2012

Keith Onken

Joyce & family,
You have my deepest sympathies. I was always glad to see David as you brought him to therapy at Warm Springs. You all will be in my thoughts & prayers & May God Bless you & your family during this difficult time.

October 18, 2012

Troy Johnson

Sorry to hear about your loss.

October 18, 2012

Sherry Hale

I attended elementary school and college at Southwest with David. He is truly one of the best of the best. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and in my prayers. Sherry Hoffer Hale

October 18, 2012

Diane Young

Note to Carl and his family; I will always remember David as a smiling and happy man. Sending condolences and warm wishes your way.

October 18, 2012

Travis and Lorey Spears

We are so sorry for your loss. Continued prayers for the family.

October 18, 2012

Marvin & Susan Bujnoch

Our deepest and sincerest sympathy to the entire Bludau family. We are saddened by your loss. May God help you heal with fond memories of David's life.

October 18, 2012

Sharon Wenske

My deepest sympathy for the Bludau family. May you find peace & comfort in your memories.I'm sure David & Dennis are catching up about old times.

October 18, 2012

Brigid and Brandon, I am so sorry for your loss. May God bless the Bludau family with the comfort that your loved one no longer suffers, is at peace and in His presence.

October 18, 2012

Dennis Willemin

October 18, 2012

Mike Tollett

David will be missed . I am better man to have known him. Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. 5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
John 14:1-6

October 17, 2012

Lynette & Alvin Langhamer

Daddy, Alvin, and myself want to send our condolences to all of you in the loss of David. He was such a super great guy....don't think I've ever met anyone as nice as David. I think God called him home at such a young age because this world wasn't good enough for him. He has gone to be with his parents, and other family and friends who have gone before us to Watch over all of you and to pray for you. What an AWESOME ANGEL you all have. God Bless you all. We love ya'll.....

October 17, 2012

JUANICE HARRIS

Joyce & famly: You know there are no words to express the sadness I feel in the loss of a good friend; David is "gone but never forgotten".My love to all of you.....

October 17, 2012

Frank & Eileen Targac, Jr

Joyce and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

October 17, 2012

CODY WARNER

I WOULD LIKE TO SEND MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE BLUDAU FAMILY. DAVID WAS A COWORKER OF MINE FOR NEAR TEN YEARS. I ALWAYS HAD THE GREATEST TIME WORKING WITH DAVID! HE HAD A GREAT HEART! WAS A GREAT ADVOCATE FOR MANY WORKERS IN THE RAIL INDUSTRY. I AM SO SADDEN BY THE LOSS OF YOUR FATHER HUSBAND AND BROTHER! AND I AM VERY SAD FOR THE LOSS OF MY FRIEND. NO DOUBT DAVID IS WITH HIS LORD AND SAVIOR. GOD BLESS YOU ALL....... CODY C. WARNER

October 17, 2012

Becky Hilton

Blessings to all of the Bludau family at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Howard and Becky

October 17, 2012

Paul & Patty Ahrens

Joyce and family, our condolences on David's passing. We are so glad we got to visit the past few months. So many great memories of growing up together in Hallettsville. David will never be forgotten.

October 17, 2012

Connie Jarrett

Joyce, Vanessa and family, We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers. I know David will be greatly missed. May God carry you through this most difficult time.
Sam and Connie Jarrett and Austin Vela

October 17, 2012

Nancy Kaye Bentley

Our prayers are with all of you at this time....David was such a joy to be around in high school,I have very good memories...We pray God gives all of you comfort in the joys of your memories,he will live on in your hearts forever....Nancy(Tesch) & Bobby Bentley

October 17, 2012

Liz Christian

Joyce,
So sorry to hear about David's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

October 17, 2012

Ben & Nancy Dworsky

Bludau Family, our deeptest sympathy to all of you at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

October 17, 2012

Lisa and Joey Baker

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. With the short amount of time living next door we will remember the across the fence football/baseball talks and dog chases we had with David fondly. So sorry for this great loss of a truly wonderful man.

October 17, 2012

Ron and Katherine Harabis

Joyce and family, We are so sorry to hear about David. Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

October 17, 2012

Kristi & Brent Appelt

Janet and family, Our hearts are with you during this time of sorrow.

October 17, 2012

So sorry for your loss, Tiffany & Family. May you all feel God's presence, mercy & love in your time grief.
With Love
Bart & Rachel Smith (Justin's aunt & uncle)

October 17, 2012

Mauro Family

Bludau Family, so sorry for your loss. You will be in our hearts and prayers. With memories comes treasures, and you will have those forever.

October 17, 2012

Buddy Christopher

David was a great man and a good railroader whom all enjoyed to work with. RIP David your work here on Earth is done.

October 17, 2012

JT & Jordan Gerald

Vanessa and family, we are so sorry for you loss. Our hearts go out to you during this time of sorrow, and you are in our thoughts and prayers.

October 17, 2012

Michael Stulberg

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. David was a true gentleman in a world where it is rare to find such an honest man. David always had kind words for others and will be missed.

October 16, 2012

David & Theresa Sismilich

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. David's courage and yours were truly inspiring to us during our pilgrimage last year. Know that our thoughts and prayers are certainly with you in this time of sorrow. We just returned from Lourdes and Fatima again and thought of you many times while we were there. May God comfort you and pour out His blessings upon you and your family in your time of loss.

Posted by David & Theresa Sismilich

October 16, 2012

Gene and Rennie Brigman

Joyce and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort and may God wrap you in His loving arms to carry you through this difficult time. What a blessing David was in our life and so many others. God bless you all.

October 16, 2012

James Harty

What a terrible loss. I had some great times with DJ in South Bend and even down in New Orleans. My deepest condolences to the Bludau family. You are in my prayers.

October 16, 2012

Mark and Annette McClelland

We are so very sorry for your loss. We will keep you and your family close in prayer. May God's perfect peace comfort you and yours.

October 16, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Troy and Connie Stoneburner

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