Howard DuFour

DUFOUR, Howard R. 94, of New Carlisle, Ohio passed away Sunday December 13, 2009.

He was born January 10, 1915 in Connersville, Indiana the son of the late Lawrence & Fern (Bush) DuFour. He worked on the Manhattan Project in Chicago and was instrumental in developing the Atomic Bomb. He also authored a book with Peter Unit on Charles E. Taylor the (Wright Brothers Mechanician).

Building the 1903 Wright Flyer for Wright State University was a lifelong dream fulfilled for Howard. In the years following the building of the flyer, Howard continued to amaze everyone with his energy, ability with tools, and love of life. He and his dedicated group of volunteers built three Wright gliders after the 1903 flyer. He also found time to travel around the country teaching people about Charlie Taylor, a man who possessed qualities that he loved best and had himself: curiosity, ingenuity, and an inventive spirit.

Howard DuFour never met a stranger. He greeted everyone with a hug and became their friend after the first hello. He was a member and High Priest at the Church of Latter Day Saints, Huber Heights, OH. He was a retired master machinist from Monsanto and created the DuFour Machine Shop at Wright State University.

He is survived by a son, Larry (Karen) DuFour of North Carolina; daughter, Jenny (Chuck) Clevell of New Carlisle; grandchildren, Lorrie DuFour, Kevin & Jason Dufour, Kurt Hodge & Ami Holbrook; six great grandchildren; and great great grandchildren; and many friends. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wives, Opal Marie & Ruth Elizabeth.

Howard's wish was for a graveside service only which will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday December 17, 2009 at New Carlisle Cemetery. Arrangements by the TROSTEL, CHAPMAN, DUNBAR & FRALEY FUNERAL HOME, New Carlisle, Ohio, 11545 Musselman Rd. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Wright State University Archives. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.trostelchapman.com .