David George Dickerson, 73, died at his Hinsdale home Dec. 30, 2024.
Dave was a 1969 graduate of Hinsdale Central High School. He received his bachelor's degree in engineering from Northwestern University and his MBA from Northwestern University School of Business.
Dave worked for almost 50 years in the HVAC and building automation industry. He founded and ran Control Engineering Corp. for more than 25 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. 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.
A 40-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.
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 sons and crew for his success on the lake.
Dave is survived by his wife, Mary; his two sons, Ben (Amanda) and Tim (Treasure); his siblings Paul, (Beth), Jeanne and Anne; and many cousins, nephews and nieces.
Dave's family will finalize plans for a celebration of his life in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, memorials be made online to Troop 10 Hinsdale at http://www.Troop10Hinsdalefundraising.com or the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation at thechicagoyachtclubfoundation.com.