John Wayne Taudte

Wayne was born on September 27, 1947, in Baltimore, MD. On April 21, 1979, he married the love of his life, Beverly. Together they built a family and a life filled with laughter, loyalty, and devotion.

Wayne’s strong work ethic was second to none. He worked at Publix as a teenager until retiring in 1992, then joined American Airlines, where he stayed until retirement in 2005. Never one to sit still, Wayne went on to work at Diebold, retiring in 2022. Wherever he worked, Wayne was respected for his dedication, honesty, and the way he treated everyone like family. His colleagues recall him as thoughtful, compassionate, and a true man of his word.

Wayne served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Machinist’s Mate Third Class (MM3) during the Vietnam War, dedicating himself to the essential operations and maintenance that keep Navy vessels running smoothly. He later continued his dedication and was raised as a Master Mason (Scottish Rite 32°, Phoenix Lodge 346), Shriner at Sahib Temple, and a lifelong NRA member. His pride in his country, community, and traditions was clear in everything he did.

Wayne never met a stranger. His smile and gentle spirit could put anyone at ease, and his generosity was felt by countless people throughout his life. He was a giver at heart, always putting others before himself.

Wayne’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Jessica (Justin) and Alissa (Bennie); grandchildren, Heather and Stephanie; and great-grandchildren, Kaylyn and Cayden. He is also survived by his sister, Tempie Taudte; his niece, Gianna (Neil); and his nephew, Carlo (Diana). Wayne now rests with his parents, James Taudte and Mildred Ward, who went before him.

The family will celebrate Wayne’s life on Sunday, October 12, 2025, with visitation starting 11:00 AM followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM at Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34232. A reception will follow after the memorial service until 2:30 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to organizations close to Wayne’s heart: Shriners Children’s (855-425-1948), Sarasota National Cemetery, or Tidewell Hospice (https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate).

The family is deeply grateful to friends, caregivers, hospice, and all who walked alongside Wayne with care and compassion in his final days.

Though words can only begin to capture the depth of Wayne’s love, his vibrant spirit will live on in every smile he inspired, every hand he helped, and every memory shared