David McCann Woods

Funeral Mass Livestream: https://basilica.nd.edu/sacraments/funerals/funerals-livestream/

David McCann Woods
August 28, 1937 – December 9, 2024

David McCann Woods, lovingly known as “Papa Woody,” and “the Colonel” passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on August 28, 1937, in Evanston, Illinois, David was the cherished son of Robert M. and Frances K. Woods. He is now reunited with his parents and siblings—Robert Jr., Thomas, and Mary Ellen Williams.

David was a 1959 graduate of DePauw University, where he developed the foundation for a remarkable life of service, leadership, and love. In 1962, he married Eileen Scherr, the love of his life and his constant partner for more than six decades. Together, they built a legacy centered on faith, family, and generosity. They are the proud parents of four children—Teresa, Marcelline, Timothy, and Christopher—and grandparents to 16 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who adored their “Papa Woody.”

David’s life was characterized by quiet humility and deep faith. Though he rarely spoke of his achievements, there were many. Among them was receiving Notre Dame’s prestigious President’s Award, conferred by Rev. Edward A. Malloy, C.S.C., in recognition of his tireless advocacy for dignity, respect, and inclusion. David led by example, whether mentoring young professionals, working alongside stadium ushers, or uplifting those in need.

After 28 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, David retired as a Colonel in 1988. His military career included two combat tours in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Vietnamese Medal of Honor First Class, among other honors. His devotion to his country was matched by his commitment to his community. Even in retirement, David and Eileen dedicated themselves to helping others, establishing the Colonel David and Eileen Woods Family Scholarship at Notre Dame to support ROTC students and children of military families.

David’s presence was felt far and wide, whether through his work with Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, or simply in the joy he brought to every Notre Dame Women’s Basketball game as a devoted fan. He had a knack for connecting with people, a heart for service, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen, and loving family who carry forward his incredible legacy of love, kindness, and faith.   Loving children include:  Teresa (Steve) Meier, Marcelline (Kevin) Kilpatrick, Timothy (Kathleen) Woods, and Christopher (Michelle) Woods.   Grandchildren include:  Lyndsey (Travis) King, Connor (Casey) Kilpatrick, Austin Meier (Colin Cullitan), Quinn (Grace) Kilpatrick, Eileen Kilpatrick, Kendall (Noe) Vazquez, Liam Kilpatrick (Abby Stahl), Mikaylah (Ian) Black, Aidan Kilpatrick (Brynne Weed), MiKenzie Woods (Ross Wenkus), Marymargaret Woods, Ian Woods, Keleen Woods, Colin Woods, Zachariah Woods, and Jacob “Cubby” Woods.   Great grandchildren include:  Regan, Maeve, and Finnegan Kilpatrick, Cruze, Dawson, and Gage King, Brady and Eileen Kilpatrick, and Ayla Vazquez.

SERVICES:

December 16, 2024 (Monday) – Visitation

2:30pm – 6pm:  Kaniewski Funeral Homes, 3545 N Bendix Dr, South Bend, IN 46628

We invite you to wear Green or Notre Dame attire

December 17, 2024 (Tuesday) – Funeral Mass, Burial, Celebration of Life:

9:30am:  Funeral Mass:  Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 101 Basilica Drive Notre Dame, IN

10:45am:  Burial:  Cedar Grove Cemetery, 100 Cedar Grove Cottage Notre Dame, IN

12:30pm - 4pm:  Celebration of Life:  Dahnke Family Ballroom (7th floor, Duncan Student Center, Notre Dame Stadium)

Memorial Gifts:

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the University of Notre Dame.   Please direct your gift to the “Woods Scholarship End.” in honor of the Colonel David and Eileen Woods Family Scholarship Fund, ensuring that David’s dedication to service and education continues to inspire future generations.  Gifts may be made online at giving.nd.edu, by phone at 574-631-5150, or by mail: University of Notre Dame, Department of Development, 1100 Grace Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556

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