David H.
Dodson
David H. Dodson
July 1st, 1952 – April 29th, 2025
David H. Dodson, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Ripon, WI on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025. Though we’re heartbroken and we will miss his outgoing, loving, generous, and motivated personality, we know he’s already cracking jokes and casting fishing lines somewhere up in heaven.
Born in Union, Mississippi to Everett and Annie (Wolverton) Dodson, David made his entrance into the world with a surprise twist – shortly after, his twin brother Dale was born. Growing up, David spent a lot of time helping at his family’s store, fishing and hunting, stirring up trouble with Dale, and enjoying time with sister Cindy and younger brother Joel. His love of music bloomed early, teaching himself guitar and singing in the church choir – a passion that never faded.
After graduating from Utica High School in 1971, David enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served for over 22 years. His military career took him to Korea and Germany (twice each!) and many places in between. From Tank Commander to Staff Sergeant, he held many roles and responsibilities and earned several honors, including the Meritorious Service medal. The Army was a perfect fit for his strong spirit and sense of duty – but even more meaningful during that time was welcoming his two sons, David (“Little Dave”) and Steven, who became the center of his world. Somewhere along the way, David also became a DJ – because why not add “life of the party” to the resume? His last duty stationed was at the Federal Building in Milwaukee and then Wisconsin became his forever home. While in Milwaukee, he started working at Music on the Move and gained lifelong friends (and the nickname “Sarge,” which stuck for good). One wedding gig changed everything – it’s where he met the love of his life, Ruth. They married in 1997, and together they worked hard, enjoying fishing on a boat that he restored to its original condition, traveling, going to shows and concerts with friends, and of course trying to find the best Friday night fish fry! By marrying Ruth, he also gained Heather, whom he was very proud to call his daughter.
After retiring from the Army in 1993, David dove into the civilian world and held various managerial roles from running trade shows and a bakery, his organization and leadership skills he gained from the Army carried through. Labeling, filing, word documents, and creating epic spreadsheets, he was in his glory! In his free time, he could be found on his ebike exploring trails in Ripon and Green Lake, headphones on, wind on his face and peace in his heart. He was extremely proud of his grandkids and loved spending time with them. He took lots of pictures of family and would happily show them off. He loved fishing, traveling the US, making sure he had the latest and greatest tech gadget, and visiting family in Mississippi and California.
David is survived by his wife of 28 years, Ruth Dodson (Wendorf), sons Little Dave (Penny) Dodson and Steven Dodson; daughter Heather (Andrew “Mr. A”) Bubolz; mother Annie Dodson; sister Cindy (Amir) Zandieh; grandchildren Alexander (Sophie) Dodson, Hudson Schatzke, Bree and Grant Bubolz, Serafina and Harleigh Dodson; sister-in-laws Judy Diliberti, Sara and Angela Dodson; brother-in-laws Fred Wendorf and John Diliberi; beloved nieces Jaclyn (Shane) Dini, Shelly (Danny) Lawson, Kimberly (David) Durr and, Kelly (Rusty) Curan; proud Unc to Eric (Stephanie) Zandieh, Tanner Dodson and Tyler (Adriana) Dodson; as well as countless cousins, friends and extended family who adored him.
He is reunited in heaven with his twin brother Dale, brother Joel, father Everett, and grandson Eli – no doubt he’s already fishing, blasting music, and sharing a Butterfinger or two.
David wouldn’t want tears – he’d want a celebration, full of stories, laughter, and even a little dancing. And because he was just so damn awesome, we’re throwing TWO Celebrations of Life – one in Franklin, WI and the second in Terry, MS.
Wisconsin celebration– Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at 5:00pm at The Hideaway Pub & Eatery (9643 S 76th Street in Franklin, WI). Let us take a shot of whiskey, share his love for the PACKERS, and dance the night away in honor of him.
Mississippi service & celebration– Saturday, June 14th, 2025, at 10:00am at Terry Baptist Church (209 Raymond Street in Terry, MS).
*In lieu of flowers, David would be thrilled if you considered a donation to one of his favorite organizations: Tunnel to Towers at www.t2t.org
Note: This obituary is the property of Heritage Funeral Homes and is published here with permission from the family. If you are viewing it on any website other than www.heritagefuneral.com, please be aware it has been copied without consent and may not reflect the most accurate or complete information.
My condolences to all those Davud touched during his life. Many are better off for the contributions he made while in service to our nation. Again my condolences and may the
Blessings of God shroud his family. and friends.
David Stafford , a friend.
I am shocked and saddened by the loss of David. He and I were classmates for twelve years at Utica school. We graduated together in 1971. My condolences to his wife, Ruth, his children and grandchildren. I also send my sympathy to David’s mother and sister, as well as, his many other relatives and friends. Sincerely, Paula Little Greer