John J. Dudzik

John J. Dudzik, 86, of Forest Park, died on Oct. 22, 2024 after a short illness. Born on Sept. 4, 1938 to John and Anne Dudzik in Whiting, Indiana, he graduated from George Rogers Clark High School, then enlisted in the Navy and served on the Heavy Cruiser USS Macon.

Following his military service, he studied finance at Indiana University, earning a bachelor’s degree, then completed an MBA at DePaul University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.

His first job was with Boulevard National Bank in Chicago’s Wrigley Building, kickstarting a 40-year career in banking, ending as Senior VP of Commercial Lending at Comerica Bank.

John met his future wife, Carol Baughman, a school teacher in Oak Park District 97 Elementary Schools, on a blind date. They were married in 1970 and enjoyed a 54-year marriage filled with travel, ranging from Europe to South America.

John’s interests and hobbies included attending heavyweight title fights, season tickets to Chicago Blackhawks hockey, running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain (many, many times), and collecting Cuban rums.

John was predeceased by his father John, mother Anne and brother Richard. He is survived by his wife, Carol; his brother, Gerry; his sister, Patty; his nephew, Justin and his niece, Kathleen.

Services are private. Information is available through Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park in Forest Park.