John William DuBay, Sr.

John William DuBay, Sr., age 89, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska. Born on January 25, 1937, in Michigan, John lived a life marked by service, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to his faith and family.

In 1954, at the age of 17, John enlisted in the United States Air Force, embarking on a distinguished 28-year career that took him across the globe. Early in his service, while stationed in Texas, he met and married the love of his life, Juanita. Their union became the foundation of a family that would accompany him on many of his assignments. John's military career included deployments to Korea, Turkey, Thailand, and the Philippines. His family joined him during his postings in Turkey and the Philippines, as well as Arkansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, and Texas.

Throughout his career in the Air Force, John served in various roles related to supporting and managing all aspects of Air Force base chapel operations. His work reflected not only his professional dedication but also his deep spirituality. During an early deployment to Korea, John was profoundly moved by the plight of orphans and volunteered extensively to support them. His faith remained central to his life as he engaged deeply with the Catholic Church through music ministry and later as a eucharistic minister. Together with Juanita and their four children, John contributed to the music for weekly Masses at their base chapels, a testament to their shared devotion.

Beyond his military achievements, John was a man of extraordinary artistic and musical talent. From a young age, he demonstrated an innate ability to play piano by ear and draw with remarkable precision - skills he honed without formal training. Over time, he mastered a wide range of keyboard instruments including the accordion, stringed instruments, harmonicas, and woodwinds. His artistic pursuits were equally impressive; John became a prolific artist who worked with diverse media and styles. His creations are cherished by family and friends alike as enduring reminders of his talent and passion.

After 28 years of service, John retired from the Air Force. Over the course of his career, he earned numerous accolades for his service and dedication. After retiring from the military, John continued to dedicate himself to others through volunteer work in assisted living and memory care facilities in the Bellevue-Papillion area of Nebraska. He shared his art and music generously while bringing Holy Communion to residents as part of his ongoing service to the Catholic Church. His efforts and visits brought comfort and joy to countless individuals.

John is survived by his four children: Melinda (Mark), Edward, Sr. (Stephanie), Donald (Shelly), and John, Jr.; grandchildren Danielle (Andrew), Courtney (James), Nathan, and Macie, and four great grandchildren; siblings sister Jeanette (the late Geza), brothers Daniel (the late Gayle), Douglas and Donald (Rusty).

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Juanita, grandson Edward, Jr. and daughter-in-law Alicia (John, Jr.); parents Mary and Roland; siblings Joan (the late John), Mary Lynn, and James (Susanne).

John's life was one of faithfulness - to God, to his family, and to those he served through his art and music. His humor, kindness, creativity, and dedication will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.

A private memorial service with military honors is to be held at a future date.

Messages of sympathy, memories and photos may be posted on this website. Cards may be sent to the DuBay family at Omaha Cremation Services, 4138 S 144th Street, Omaha, NE 68137, to be forwarded to the family.