John Elliot Laudeman

John Elliot Laudeman was born in Pasadena, California, on July 13, 1940 to the parents of Milton John Laudeman and Dora Frances (Hallmark) Laudeman. While still an adolescent, he spent some memorable years in White City, Kansas, where he worked the farm with his Uncle Bill and Aunt Hazel. He played football in high school and graduated from Pasadena High School in the class of ’57.

Upon graduation, he worked for the Santa Fe railroad for a short time--a job that he thoroughly enjoyed. Next, John embarked on a long and gratifying career with the California Department of Corrections (CDC). While at the CDC, he “worked his way up the ladder” from Correctional Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and, ultimately, Associate Warden. From Fire Camp to the Special Services Unit, he worked in various prestigious positions and mainline institutions too numerous to list. Upon retiring from the CDC in December of 1995, he worked in Paroles for a brief period of time. He then went on to serve as both the Deputy Warden and, subsequently, Warden for the Adelanto Community Correctional Facility in Adelanto, California.

His formal education included an Associate’s Degree in Police Science from Chaffey College. Additionally, John attained two certifications from the California Community Colleges: One in Public Services and Administration and another in the field of Police Science. John also earned and proudly maintained his private investigator license with the State of California.

In his leisure time, John enjoyed traveling, fine dining and gardening. He also liked to read, collect train memorabilia, and spend quality time with his family and friends. Worthy of mentioning is that John loved animals and had horses and dogs throughout his lifetime. Two of his doggies that he so dearly loved were Wolf and Rusty.

John is survived by his wife, Sharon Rose Laudeman, his brother, Robert Laudeman, and his sister, Beverly Yancey. He has five children: Kristina Lecka, Jacqueline Laudeman, Robin Thomas, Perry Jones and La Ronda Smith. He also has nine grandchildren (Jack, Trevor, Liam, Shane, Brandy, Tonya, Jamie, Melissa, and Michelle), and two great-granddaughters, DeAnna and Joanna.