Dude Breitbarth

With fond remembrance and a bit of sorrow, we mark the passing of Dude Breitbarth, known at birth as Darren Thomas Breitbarth, who left us at the age of 61 on December 17, 2023, in Tyler, Texas. Born to Eugene and Janet Breitbarth on January 1, 1962, in Peoria, Illinois, Dude's life was an inspiring saga of adventure, love, and kindness. His journey was profoundly shaped by his lifelong father-figure, Harold Sliger. He was preceded in death by both parents and his nephew, Charley Rodgers. Dude served with honor as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Mechanic in the Air Force, a role he embraced with dedication and pride. Beyond his military service, his talents as a gifted mechanic and his generous spirit made him a cherished figure in any community. The epicenter of Dude's life was his deep love for his wife, Emma Jean Breitbarth. Their partnership was a harmonious blend of friendship, love, and laughter, creating a legacy of joy from Illinois to the sunny decks of cruise ships, and across the wide expanse of Texas. Dude's enthusiasm for wrestling, particularly for the legendary "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, was matched by his love for the music of Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams. These passions reflected his vibrant and resilient spirit, and the celebratory "Woo!" for his kids and grandkids in public and private moments. His legacy is lovingly carried on by his wife, Emma; his children, Aaron, Daisy Breitbarth, and Greg Pari; and his adored grandchildren, Abby Rose, Arya Pari, Leonydas, Tiberius, Zephyra, Furiosa, Stella, Jamari, Elijah and Romina. The strong bonds he shared with his siblings Jan, Jane, Jeanie, Tam, Cassie, Glori, Kevin (also known as "Kelvis"), and Matthew, as well as his extended chosen family including Rick Wells and the Sligers, are a testament to his warm heart, wordless understandings, and capacity for deep connections. In lieu of flowers or donations, we invite you to honor Dude's memory by reflecting on family, love, and the simple joys of life. A memorial service to celebrate Dude's remarkable life will be held on Friday, December 22, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Stewart Family Funeral Home, with visitation an hour before. We gather to remember a man whose life was a beacon of light, love, and laughter to all who knew him.

Dude Breitbarth

January 1, 1962 - December 17, 2023