Dudley Birder

Dudley Damian Birder, 95 years young, passed away on November 26, 2022, surrounded by his family.
Dudley was born on March 23, 1927, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Wanda and Cecil Birder, who preceded him in death, as did his siblings, James Patrick, Joan and her spouse, and brother-in-law Patrick.
On February 11, 1950, in South Bend, Indiana, Dudley married Mary Barany, who preceded him in death on November 25, 2008. His devoted children include James, John (Linda), Dudley (Carla), Lissa (Paul), Joan, and Cresence. He is also survived by a sister Terry Casey, 13 grandchildren, their spouses, 7 great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.
Dudley graduated from the former Central Catholic High School in South Bend, Indiana. Upon graduation he joined the United States Navy. After his return from service he began his studies at the University of Notre Dame earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1950 and Master of Music degree in 1952. He pursued doctoral studies at the University of Minnesota (1954-56) and further post-graduate study at UCLA in 1966.
Dudley commenced his teaching career in 1954 at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Canada. In 1958 he accepted a teaching position at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin. During his career at St. Norbert College, he founded The Chamber Singers, The Swinging Knights, Madrigal Dinners, Music Theatre, and the Collegiate Chorale, which was renamed the Dudley Birder Chorale in 1999. He also had the distinct honor of being a repeat guest conductor at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Dudley's talent and work ethic set him apart. Independent, spirited, complex and confident, his passion for life and music created indelible memories for many who knew and worked with him. Work was less like work and more like fun. He lived music as naturally as breathing and continued to work, learn and perform, all of which were vital to him.
Dudley lived life believing in acceptance, tolerance and creating opportunities for all, particularly for his students. He was an inspiration and a good friend to anyone who crossed his path. His passion and dedication defined his life whether he was studying, teaching or performing. He approached all with equal enthusiasm. His influence touched many lives. Many honors were bestowed upon him in recognition of his dedication and service, not the least of which was the dedication of The Dudley Birder Hall in 2013 at St. Norbert College.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Broadway Theatre in Downtown De Pere. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Dudley's family at the Broadway Theatre address, 123 South Broadway, De Pere, WI 54115.
Among others, the family would like to thank their relatives and friends, Ryan Funeral Home and Bobby Tsegmud as well as the staff at Rennes Health and Rehab Center.