Actor David Emge from ‘Dawn of the Dead’ Passes Away

Actor David Michael Emge, best known to horror enthusiasts for his portrayal of Stephen ‘Flyboy’ Andrews in George A. Romero’s iconic horror film “Dawn of the Dead,” has passed away at the age of 77. Emge breathed his last on Saturday, January 20, at the West River Health Campus in Evansville, Indiana.

In Romero’s “Dawn of the Dead,” Emge’s character ‘Flyboy’ served as a pivotal figure, a pilot for the WGON-TV station, finding himself trapped in a mall amidst a zombie apocalypse. ‘Flyboy’ eventually succumbs to the zombie transformation later in the film, solidifying Emge’s performance as one that has stood the test of time, making ‘Flyboy Zombie’ one of the most iconic movie zombies.

Following his role in the 1978 classic, David Emge continued his foray into the horror genre with appearances in films such as “Basket Case 2” (1990) and “Hellmaster” (1992).

Born on September 9, 1946, in Evansville to the late Richard Andrew and Gertrude Mary (Wipf) Emge, David was a proud Eagle Scout and a member of the Boy Scout Troop at Sacred Heart. He studied drama at the University of Evansville, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War while attending U of E, Emge initiated his acting career at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in 1971 and made his film debut in the comedy “The Booby Hatch.” His journey led him to New York City in 1976, where, while working as a chef, he landed the role of the helicopter pilot in Romero’s “Dawn of the Dead.”

David Emge is survived by three sisters, Sue (Bob) Berry, Kathleen (Bob) Wittgen, and Barbara (Allen) Rexing, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

To pay tribute to David Emge, memories can be shared, photos can be posted, and flowers and gifts can be sent to the family through the Pierre Funeral Home website.