PUNCHAK DAVID J

WO1 David J. Punchak was a VHPA member who died after his tour in Vietnam on 03/11/2021 at the age of 74.6
Tacoma, WA
Flight Class 71-41
Date of Birth 08/09/1946
Served in the U.S. Army
Served in Vietnam with 1 INF in 68-69, F/8 CAV in 72-73
Call sign in Vietnam BLUE GHOST 21
This information was provided by Sammie Williams - Obit

More detail on this person: Our "Papa" David was born in Fort Belvoir, Virginia to parents Margaret "Pea" and George Punchak. He was 2nd youngest of 5 siblings. David served 2 tours in Vietnam where he was highly decorated helicopter pilot. After his military service, his endeavors included owning Little Jim's Pub & The London Square restaurant. Eventually, David found his niche in car sales and enjoyed a decades long career. David's interests included cooking for his family & friends, classic movies, exercising his small aircraft pilot's license, tropical destination travel and a simple cold iced tea on a hot summer day. David was fun loving and at the ready with a witty remark or humorous saying, many of which became cataloged for others to repeat. He had a voice that was unforgettable and sense of humor like no other. Phrases like "Pasadena on that" & "Love you darling" were monikers for David. He made people laugh and created memories, even for those that didn't know him well. David was truly one of a kind and whole heartedly loved his family. He is survived by is siblings Pat Miller, Ed Punchak & Alex Punchak. Also step children Kelli Hjalseth (Cory Hjalseth) Bonni Lafferty, and Dustin Lafferty (Angela Tamajka). Grandchildren Corey, Spencer & Kate Hjalseth, Violette & Miles Lafferty and great-grandchildren Clara, Patrick & Griffith. He also leaves behind many loved Nieces & Nephews. A service will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on April 14th @ 11:00 am. Celebration of life will follow.

Burial information: Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent, WA

This information was last updated 03/29/2021

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Date posted on this site: 03/10/2024


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