David George Dickerson

David George Dickerson, age 73, died at home on December 30, 2024. Dave was a 1969 graduate of Hinsdale Central High School, received his Bachelor's degree in Engineering from Northwestern University, and his MBA from Northwestern University School of Business.
Dave had a great love for his friends and family - wife Mary, sons Ben (Amanda) and Tim (Treasure), siblings Paul (Beth), Jeanne, and Anne, in addition to his many cousins, nephews, and nieces.
Dave worked for nearly fifty years in the HVAC and building automation industry. He founded and ran Control Engineering Corp. for more than twenty-five years. As a business leader, Dave had a drive to help those who worked with him, enjoying most the opportunity to mentor young engineers.
Beyond his professional life, Dave worked to give back to the Hinsdale community he called home. He volunteered as a member of the Board of Trustees and Buildings and Grounds committee at Union Church of Christ. He also spent decades with Troop 10 of Hinsdale where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a teen, and later oversaw it as a Scoutmaster for several years while his sons were members.
Dave immersed himself fully into his hobby and passion - sailing. A forty-year member of the Chicago Yacht Club, Dave was an exceptional sailor, well known by Lake Michigan racers for his many victories, consistent enthusiasm for the sport, and a voice that could carry across the lake. He served on multiple committees at CYC, focusing on bringing racing and sailing to everyone. Dave chaired the Crew U program for several years, and helped create the Rookie Regatta Series, ensuring that new Chicagoans could share in his joy of the sport. Dave also served as a member of the CYC Offshore Fleet Committee and as a representative on the board of CASRA, helping to coordinate the Monroe Skyline Series and bring his sound judgement and experience to racing matters across all Yacht Clubs in the Chicago sailing community.
As the skipper of Paradigm Shift, Dave raced nearly every race available to him. He earned multiple Skyline Series wins, and could run two full halyards of 'brag flags' up the mast. In 2021, Dave completed one of his long held goals, joining the Island Goat Sailing Society by completing his 25th Race to Mackinac. He was always grateful to his beloved sons and incredible crew for his success on the lake.
Dave's family will finalize plans for a celebration of his life in the near future. The family asks that In lieu of flowers, donations be made to either Troop 10 Hinsdale or the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation a program designed to bring the benefits and joy of boating to youths from under represented communities. Arrangements by Sullivan Funeral Home 630-323-0275 or www.sullivanfuneralhomehinsdale.com