David "Dino" Hughes, age 69, of Xenia, OH, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on May 28, 2025. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nurse, and friend, Dino lived a life defined by quiet strength and unwavering dedication to the people he cared about.

Born on May 26, 1956, to Russell and Jeanie Hughes, Dino grew up involved in many activities and earned a reputation as a gifted athlete, especially on the basketball court. He once told his daughter that the only reason he went to college was because he got a scholarship and wanted to keep playing ball. His athleticism was matched by a sharp mind and a big heart. He earned his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and worked in the field for several years before returning to school and pursuing nursing. It was in nursing school that he met the love of his life, Jill. They married in 1985 and built a beautiful life side by side for nearly four decades.

Dino and Jill shared a once-in-a-lifetime love. Before meeting Jill, Dino had never been beyond Indiana, but together, they set out on countless adventures, traveling across the U.S. on his motorcycle, discovering the beauty of the West, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. They lived their dream by purchasing land, building a home, and raising four daughters together, who were the center of their world. If you knew Dino at all, you knew how deeply he loved Jill and his girls. He was the shining example of what a husband and father should be.

Throughout his life, Dino maintained a love for being physically active. For years, he ran six miles every day, and as he got older, he switched to cycling, riding hundreds of miles each summer. Dino worked for Kettering Health Network for over 40 years, most of them as the night Nursing Supervisor at Sycamore Hospital. He touched countless lives with his calm presence, clinical skill, and compassionate leadership. One of his coworkers once said that anytime there was a code, they were always so relieved when Dino walked into the room; he was always calm and knew exactly what to do.

Dino was a provider in every sense of the word. He was a hard worker and a quiet giver who didn't like getting recognition. He created the best childhood for his daughters, from simple moments together to family vacations that became treasured memories. Even as his daughters became adults, he never stopped celebrating them, always going above and beyond to make things special. He always ensured they had more than what they needed. They are who they are today because of him. His love and care extended to his 13 grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Poppy." Whether it was swimming in Poppy's pool, spending one-on-one time with them on their birthdays, helping with 4-H projects, or attending multiple sporting events in a single day, Dino continued to love and support his family as he always did.

Dino was preceded in death by his wife, Jill Hughes, and parents, Russell and Jeanie Hughes. He is survived by his sister, Marta LeFevre; his brother, Eric Hughes; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom were an important part of his life; his children, Katie (Tim) Kracus, Abby (Brandon) Pippin, Mattie (Tom) Stock, and Maggie (Camden) Bonardi; as well as 13 grandchildren who loved him dearly. His love and legacy live on through them, and through every person who was blessed to know him.

A memorial will be held outside on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 11:00 am. Location: 1594 Union Rd. Xenia, Oh 45385. Casual attire. There will be a potluck style picnic following the memorial.