Ron Dudek

Ronald Michael Dudek

“Ron”

Age 79 of Joliet, went to his heavenly home on Saturday, January 6, 2024 after dealing with a long-term illness. Ron was able get the care he needed in his home with the help of his family, caring support of the VA’s home health care staff and amazing neighbors.

Ron proudly served his country with the United States Army and received the Army Commendation Medal for his service during the Vietnam War with the 114^th Aviation Company “The Knights of the Air”. His company was based in Vinh Long, Vietnam and here began his lifelong love of helicopters.

Ron was truly a “jack-of-all trades”. His numerous ventures included seven years as a mechanic for Bill Jacobs, co-owner of Dudek Construction with his brother Ray, Hardware Store Manager for Shorewood Home and Auto, co-owner of Dudek, Realtors, and Property Manager Broker for the Veterans Administration, and not to mention, playing the drums with numerous local bands.

Out of all of Ron’s endeavors, he was most proud of his three sons and their families. Every accomplishment of theirs was a personal win for him.

Ron possessed a love for many things including the outdoors, Chicago sports teams, especially the Cubs with his sons: Steve, Scott and Tim, live music anywhere he could find it, biking along the river in Channahon, double-date nights with Ray and Betsy, taking trips to the farm in southern Illinois, being around little ones, especially babies, and laughing with his brother until tears rolled down their faces. Really all things family framed a life well lived for Ron. No one can fill his place as his strength and stability were the foundation that his family was built and thrived on. A measure of a man is the depth of love and respect of those who know him best and Ron was that man.

He is survived by his loving wife: Gloria (Pierce) Dudek; devoted sons: Dr. Steven (Ele) Dudek, Scott (Martha) Dudek and Timothy Dudek; cherished grandchildren: Samantha, Sydney, Pierce, Grant and Giannis Dudek, and beloved siblings: Ray (Betsy) Dudek, Sr., Virginia (Rusty) Tolson and Elizabeth “Betty” Dudek, as well as his niece: Jody and nephews: Michael, Randy, David, Kevin and their families.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents: Pete and Anne Dudek, and nephew: Ray Dudek, Jr.

The Family will receive relatives and friends for a visitation on Friday, January 12, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. until time of funeral service beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet. The service will conducted by Pastor Harry Thomason. Interment will follow and Ron will be laid to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, where he will receive full military honors in recognition of his service to our country.