Mr. John W. Dudgeon, 79, of Rochester passed away at 6:33 PM on Wednesday, January 5 , 2022 at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne.

On May 12 , 1942, John Wayne was born to John M. and Ruth Esther Largen Hinkle.  He grew up in Richland Township and was raised by his mother and Dewey Dudgeon.  With great pride John graduated with the class of 1961 from Richland Center High School.  He played basketball for the Wildcats.   Later, John continued his education studying communications at Purdue University.

John and Miss Arlene Ranstead married and their union produced two daughters, Lisa and Jacqueline. Later John and Sue Stallard married and they raised a son, Michael. The family tree has continued to grow with the added blessings of seven grandchildren.

With diverse interests, John initiated his professional career as an agent for Prudential Insurance Company.  He transitioned to Sealed Power for many years, then was a foreman at Lobdell-Emery where he retired after several years of service. He was a past president of the UAW.  The Purdue Boilermakers were his favorite team.  John also followed the Chicago Cubs and the Indianapolis Colts.  To relax he enjoyed listening to classic rock, especially the Rolling Stones of which he collected every album, the Eagles and Pink Floyd.

As a lifelong resident of Fulton County, John enjoyed cutting wood and preparing bonfires to share with family and friends. Being outdoors was the best place to be. With great passion, John was an advocate for all animals.

Left to cherish John's memory are two daughters: Lisa K. Wynn, and Jackie Murray and husband Joe, all of Rochester; son Mike Dudgeon and wife Mollie of Fairfax, CA; seven grandchildren: CJ Wynn, Zach Wynn, Mike Harris, Christina Mast, Isla Dudgeon, Oliver Dudgeon, Milo Dudgeon; and two custom blended canine companions, Smiles and Jack.

Preceding John in death are his parents and his treasured feline companion, Jack.

A gathering to celebrate the life of Mr. John W. Dudgeon will be from 4-7 PM on Thursday, January 13 , 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18 ^th St., Rochester.  Memorials may be made to The Fulton County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, 1540 Wentzel St., Rochester, IN 46975 .