Wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Howard passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2016. He was married to his wife, Maxine, for 62 years until her death 4 months ago. Howard lovingly cared for her for 12 years after her stroke. His family and friends admired his selfless attention and devotion to Maxine's needs.

Howard was born in San Francisco. His parents were Sam and Bella Dudune. He graduated from Lowell High School in June 1948. While at San Francisco State University studying music he met Maxine, the love of his life, and they were married February 14, 1954. After serving in the U.S. Army he returned to SF State to obtain his Master's Degree in music performance and a teaching credential.

Howard was a member of the Don Sherwood band that appeared nightly on television. He became an award-winning band director in the South San Francisco Unified School District where he taught music for 32 years. His passion was playing the saxophone and clarinet professionally in the Bay Area. He played in many jazz festivals throughout Northern California. Howard performed with many stars, such as Johnny Mathis, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Perry Como, Judy Garland, Rosemary Clooney, Liberace, and Jack Benny.

Those who were fortunate to know Howard knew he had a larger than life personality. Always the joke-teller he enjoyed making people laugh.
His happiest moments were when he was surrounded by family.

Howard is survived by his daughters Lauren Boardman (Douglas), Shirley Moscibrocki (Edward), grandchildren Cathy Janowitz, Douglas Boardman, Ryan Boardman (Reyanne), Scott Boardman, Monica Boardman, Lindsay Moscibrocki, Amanda Moscibrocki, as well as two great granddaughters Isabel and Jordynn. In addition, Howard leaves behind his brother-in-law Phil Debo (Linda), nephew Danny Debo (Wendy) and niece, Barrie Solomon.

Funeral arrangements by the Neptune Society. The family requests donations in his memory be made to a charity of your choice.

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

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Sep. 29 to Oct. 2, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Howard Dudune

36 Entries

Brian Novak-McSweeney

September 14, 2021

A great musician and magnificent educator.His passion for music was a gift that touched the lives of so,so many people over the years.It was my great good fortune to meet him in the fall of 1965 at a school assembly when I was 10.He played "Downtown" on his alto and my life changed forever.There is a wonderful video of him on YouTube playing the music he loved...the night before he left us.

iesha ena

October 10, 2020

Can't believe it's been this long. Mr. Dudune was always able to make me laugh. His ability to infuse humor into his teaching was awesome. Not many teachers were humorous, but he sure was. He even clowned on me when I cut my hair LMBO. He made learning fun and competitive!! God bless his family, and I know he is playing and singing in Gods great orchestra and chorus!!

Yesenia Sobalvarro

May 9, 2017

Mr. D was my band teacher when I attended Park Way Middle School. I don't know how I got so lucky to have beginning band with him. He taught me to play the clarinet in less than 6 months..but the real challenge was that I didn't speak English but someone how this guy taught me how to play this instrument. I was actually looking him up when I saw his obituary. I wanted to tell him that learning to play the clarinet was not just another class for me, the clarinet because a life line in a sad life of a non-English speaking immigrant student who was living in poverty and came from a war torn country, a child of 11 fleeing bombs and bullets. I wanted to tell him that if it had not been for him teaching me to play the clarinet my life would have turned out differently. Playing the clarinet was the only thing I had going for me in those days. Performing in his concerns, and we had many throughout the year, was and continues to be a happy memory. When everything else seemed so uncertain, playing the clarinet was certainly the best thing that happened to me. I wanted him to know all that but I couldn't not communicate with him. I hope that now he knows.

March 9, 2017

Hi Howie's student. Howie was a member of our band Swing Fever for many years. To prepare for his Memorial we put together a CD on which every song has features Howie Dudune. We would like to send you one. Send us an email with your mailing address [email protected]

Regards,
Paula for Swing Fever
www.swingfever.com

March 7, 2017

He was my band leader/teacher in 6th, 7th,8th grades at Southwood Jr high. He inspired me to reach first chair clarinet,, then gave me a real clarinet to use (I had a silver one piece!) He made me band secretary and taught me how to conduct. I was also in the marching bane. He bought me my very first bottle of perfume. I never knew all this other interesting stuff, much to mY dismay now. He always had a big wide smile on his face. He meant alot to me.

I just happened to come across this post randomly. I have never forgotten him, and my 50vyr graduation reunion coming up in September 2017. I've forgotten alot, but not him.

Paula Helene

December 1, 2016

Please RSVP for Howie's memorial at the Iron Gate on 1/8/16 - [email protected]

Paula Helene

December 1, 2016

There will be a memorial celebration of Howie Dudune's life on 1/8/17 at the Iron Gate Restaurant in Belmont from 3PM to 7 PM with lots of live music.

Elizabeth Damonte

November 3, 2016

Mr. Dudune was my music teacher and band director at Southwood Junior High School in SSF. He was the greatest music teacher ever! We all loved him and he taught us to love music. I was his first chair clarinet player, 1972-75, and a proud John Phillip Souza Award recipient. Thank you, Mr. Dudune, and God bless you!
Elizabeth Damonte

David Fresquez

October 10, 2016

Wonderful teacher and so so sorry to hear the news of his passing. Godspeed Mr. Dudune..

October 9, 2016

I taught with Howie at Parkway in South SAN Francisco. He
Was also a dear friend. You will be missed.

Joe Sheehan,San Carlos,CA

Dennis Dawson

October 6, 2016

The world is a less bright place without Howie. Howie was my first music teacher at Martin Elementary School when I was in 4th grade in 1958. Later I had the pleasure of working with Howie as a fellow teacher at Southwood Junior High in the 80's. The world is a less bright place but I swear that I see the stars dancing a little more brightly at night.

Patrick Psaila

October 5, 2016

I will always remember Mr. Dudune fondly. He was my junior high music teacher and I was his student conductor for three years.
I also learned how to play the sax by him in grade school.
Will Keep him in my prayers.

Patrick Psaila

Susan and Clifford Gutterman

October 5, 2016

We will miss Howard and his great sense of humor. Our thoughts are with cousin Lorie and Howard's entire family. What beautiful, beautiful tributes from his students. He could not leave a more valuable legacy.

October 5, 2016

Mr. Dudune was my music teacher at Southwood Junior High school in South San Francisco from 1973-1976. He was very well respected from his students. Everybody liked him. It seems he went on to amazing things in life which does not surprise me. May he rest in peace in heaven.

Lori Eisenberg McBride

October 4, 2016

Mr. Dudune was my instrumental music teacher when I was in 6th grade at Ponderosa Elementary School. He touched so many lives beginning at the elementary school level and then at Southwood Junior High. He was a wonderful teacher with a great sense of humor.

Steven Ravaglioli

October 4, 2016

Mr. Dudune is a legend in my eyes. I grew up hearing about his fantastic musicianship from my father who attended high school and San Francisco State with Howard. Howard was a model music educator and renown musician. I attended Avalon School. I started playing trumpet under Fred Cadiente, then attended Southwood Junior High School. In 1970, when I as in 7th grade, I was in Mr. Dudune's beginning concert band. I was introduced to so much great music and was also being mentored by a great music educator. The first thing he said to me on the first day of class, while takin roll, was, "Hey! Ravioli, I know your father!" I knew then that I had to behave. He modeled by playing the music with his clarinet so we could hear the phrasing, articulation, dynamics and focus as well as resonance of tone quality. He made it a point to involve us in CMEA solo ensemble festivals which led us to the University campuses and gave us a chance to play for judges with a rating or score. Of course, we learned from the preparation of practicing. Howard would meet us at 7:30 a.m., at his lunch time, and after school to give us special help and rehearse us. He invited student pianists to accompany. It was an inspiring collaboration. He gave up much of his precious "down time" to help us. Howard made us work hard, but we gained the intrinsic gratification as a result of that hard work. Howard was the role model. He worked hard. I still remember the pep band and jazz ensemble. I was introduced to the music of Ellington, Hefti and Basie through Howard. The pep band introduced me to contemporary music. I remember being totally "blown away" by playing the Bach Fugue in G minor and Torrie Zito's Brazilian Fantasy.....two very distinct styles and genres, each requiring different articulations and skills. He drove us in his car (red plaid seats) to the local cable TV station where we performed our solos and ensembles to be televised several times on UHF that following weekend. We were so thrilled to see the cameras, be under the hot lights and watch ourselves on the monitors. Wow, such an experience I had....and I appreciate it now, more than ever, because I became a music educator and am in my 27th year.

One more thing: the romances.....I never would have realized it at my young age, but Howard (Mr. Dudune) would catch me in the hallway and say, "Hey! Ravioli, did you know Carol likes you?" Of course, he never gave a last name, so I never knew. who.....

He also spoke of more experienced trumpet players such as Mike Galisatus or Rob Sack, which motivated me to practice more.

I also was in his US History class. He made history very interesting to me as an 8th grader, which must have been an unbelievable task. His explanation of WWII was tremendous. He was ahead of his time; using multi-media such as films, slides, cassette tape recorders and overhead projectors. Planning these history lessons must have taken many hours of planning and preparation. I especially recall the aroma of the dittos on test days:)

These many experiences Howard provided for me, and all the students who had the privilege of having him as a teacher, shaped my life. The message I received from him was, "I care and I want you to succeed and I know you will succeed". Powerful stuff!!!!!!!!

Robert McLean

October 3, 2016

Me. Dudune was my music teacher at Southwood Jr High. I wanted to play the trumpet but he said he had too many trumpets and asked me to play the Alto Saxophone. I went on to play at South SAN Francisco High School in orchestra, marching band and jazz band (Blue Knights) under Warren Hickman. I still play to this day and am greatfful to have known and been taught by Mr. Dudune. I still remember the little Nash Rambler he used to drive.. I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the family.
Bob McLean

Mike Galisatus

October 2, 2016

Howard Dudune was a very special friend, musician, educator and mentor. The first time I heard his Southwood JHS band in 1968, I wished I could have played for him. His sense of humor and love for his students created a warm and nurturing environment for all who had the privilege of knowing him. He taught me very much about music, teaching, and life, and I will miss him very much. My condolences to this family,

David Umbertus

October 1, 2016

Thank you Mr Dudune for being such an inspiration to me. You were by far my greatest music teacher ever. Many great years of memories and music. RIP my friend.

Lidia Anguiano

October 1, 2016

Sincerest sympathy to Mr. Dudunes family and friends. I was a student of his in middle school 40 years ago. I still remember him and how much I learned from him. Rest Peacefully Mr. Dudune

Jay Morena

October 1, 2016

Fond memories of Mr. Dadune, when learning to play the drums at Southwood Jr. High 1970-72

Thanks for everything Sir, Rest in peace.

Kim (Coon) Rodriguez

October 1, 2016

The greatest band teacher *ever* has passed away far too soon. Godspeed and R.I.P., Mr. Howard Dudune.

Nancy Christine

October 1, 2016

Thank you for the gift of you & for God crossing our paths once again.....play your beautiful music in the heavens with all the beautiful angels......may God have mercy on Howard's soul & may you rest in peace.....

Janell Harris

October 1, 2016

Rest in peace Mr.Dudune you will be missed

JaNell Harris

October 1, 2016

I'm so sorry for your our loss he will be missed.

Dawn Olson

October 1, 2016

He was an integral part of my Jr. High School years. Thank you for all you gave, Mr. Dudune. You were an inspiration to so many of us. Thank you for your love of music, passion, and impeccable standards! RIP

Lori Gatlin

October 1, 2016

I'm so shocked to hear this - Mr. Dudune was my absolute favorite teacher in life. His passion for music was inspirational. He was not only my favorite teacher, but I always considered us friends. He always shared stories and mostly his time. I'm truly saddened by this news, but now he can play for our Lord and keep music alive in the heavens. Love and prayers to his entire family. RIP my friend.

Jeffrey Gilbert

October 1, 2016

We have all lost a great person. He was a great music teacher. While at Southwood Jr. High, I discovered the Baritone Sax. Me and my fellow Saxophonist, won many awards. He pushed us to play our very best. Plus, alot of us were blessed to participate in making a record. How cool was that!!! Rest in Peace Mr. Dudune.

Christopher Wikeen

September 30, 2016

My love of music and my interest to play a musical instrument was made possible by Mr. Dudune. He was a great instructor and always willing to go the extra mile to help his students get the most from their instrument. So sorry to read this obituary. You will be missed Howard. My sincerest condolences to the family of one of the best teacher I had as a young man. He was my band teacher in 1971, 72 and 73. RIP Howard and play on.

Brian Gould

September 30, 2016

God Bless Howard Dudune.Mr Dudune was a "Tour de Force" back in my day at Southwood jr.High. Definately a charismatic and talented instructor.Alas,I was a lazy student,unmotivated and oft truant,and Mr.Dudune was one of many teachers sincerely concerned For my future and disappointed I wasn't the good student my older brother was.He cared enough to draw the comparison haha! One of the truly greats for the lucky students of So.City School dist.Thank you and God Bless you Mr.Dudune.I know All of my classmates will agree!!

Andrew Saunders

September 30, 2016

A Great Man with a passion that showed. I only hope this next generation is lucky enough to have a Leader like this in their formidable years. He asked you for excellence and got it from his students... Damn we were good. Southwood Jr. HIGH Advanced Band 1979 1980 Savages...
RIP Mr Dudune. You made a difference.

Michele Farano Magni

September 30, 2016

My dad Sam Farano and Howie were very very good friends and knew each other for a long time,went to SF State together. When my dad was sick up to the time he passed away Howie was always there for him, called and visited him even when his wife wasn't doing well, he always kept in touch with him. I will remember that he played with my dad at our wedding. He will be missed by many, he was always a very nice kind man. I knew him from ABC Music he use to come in all the time and visit with us. He always asked about my family and how my boys were doing. Now he is up with my dad making sweet music together and I'm sure causing some trouble. We will miss you Howie. RIP. Love Michele Farano Magni and Family

Diane FitzGibbon

September 30, 2016

I played in the orchestra at Southwood Jr. High when Mr. Dudune was the teacher/conductor. He was very nice, and he had a very strong ethic. I played Flute and earned first chair a few times. What he taught me was not to rest on my laurels, because when I won 1st chair the first time, that's exactly what I did and I got bumped to 2nd or 3rd chair. After that experience, even if I didn't earn 1st chair I knew I did my best. God Bless to Mr. Dudune and his family. He was a wonderful teacher.

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