David Guthrie Dziuk, 90, died on Sunday, October 6, 2013. Shortly after graduating, David enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp. and shipped out to Guadalcanal and New Guinea. Following his honorable discharge, David attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in education in 1949. He went on to receive a masters degree in American history in 1951. On July 23, 1949, David married Lila Pederson of Starbuck.
David taught at Frazee High School for three years before moving to the Alexandria area, where he taught high school from 1954 to 1974 when his teaching career ended after he was afflicted with multiple sclerosis in 1971.
David enjoyed politics. While his political views were made clear, he could listen to both sides of an argument and was always willing to change his opinion in favor of a more equitable position. He moved from being a staunch Republican early in life to being a solid Democrat following the Eisenhower administration. He actively campaigned for Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale.
David also had an egalitarian view of life, supporting womens and minority rights and civil liberties. He was made an honorary member of the Alexandria Chapter of the League of Women Voters.
David also volunteered his time in the community. He lead an adult Great Books discussion group for many years and served on his church council, the city planning commission and ran unsuccessfully for mayor several times. His futuristic vision for better communities compelled him to serve on the Minnesota Experimental Commission in the late 1960s and early 1970s. While proud of his Polish heritage, David was most proud to be an American.
David loved fishing, especially bass on Lake Ida. He also loved growing roses. He taught himself photography and had his own dark room, submitting many photos for local publication.
David is survived by his children, Peter Dziuk of New Brighton, David Dziuk of Chico, California and Claudia ODonnell of Barrington, Illinois, and grandchildren, Andrew Dziuk, Ashley Dziuk, Peter ODonnell and Andrew ODonnell.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Lila, and all 13 of his brothers and sisters.
A funeral service will be held Monday, November 18, 2013 at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. The Rev. Greg Billberg will officiate.
Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. American Legion Post 87, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 936, Viet Nam Veterans of America Chapter 235 and the Minnesota National Guard will accord military honors.
Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home.
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