1931-2023
Wilfred “George” Dudley, age 92, a lifelong resident of Elwood, IN passed away peacefully, after an extended illness, on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at his residence with his loving wife at his side. He was born in Elwood on March 26, 1931, to the late Wilfred and Lillian (Miller) Dudley.
He graduated from Ball State University in 1953 with his BS in Education, 1960 with his MA of Education, and went on to achieve his Lifetime Administrator License. He was inducted into Epsilon Pi Tau International Honor Society in Industrial Arts and Industrial-Vocational Education. In 1978 he was awarded membership into Phi Delta Kappa fraternity in education.
On December 28, 1952, he married the Love of his life, Susan (Baker) Dudley and they shared 70 years of marriage together. George proudly served his country in the US Army. George started his career in teaching at Wendell L Willkie H.S. in industrial arts. He was then promoted to Assistant High School Principal. In 1969 he advanced to principal of Oakland Elementary school and later retired from the Elwood Community School System where he served as assistant superintendent.
He was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing golf, fishing, woodworking, spending time at Tippecanoe Lake, gardening, watching sports and spending as much time as possible with his family.
George supported his community through several service organizations including The Elks, The Mason’s, Shriner’s, Elwood Chamber of Commerce, and Kiwanis where he served as the President of his local chapter along with serving as Lt. Governor for 2 years. He was recognized for 25 years of service with Kiwanis.
George was honored to have a song written for him, Tried and True, composed by his brother-in-law, Buddy Baker. This piece will be shared at his Memorial Service.
George is survived by his loving wife, Susan Dudley of Elwood, IN; two daughters, Brenda (David) Skarin of Winfield, IL and Pamela Dudley of Cicero, IN; four grandchildren, Evan Skarin, Blair Skarin, Andrew (Karrie) Howk and Sabrina (Daniel) Masterson; two great-grandchildren, Logan Masterson and Kellan Masterson.
George was preceded in death by his parents Wilfred and Lillian Dudley.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 25, 2023, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Dunnichay Funeral Home in Elwood. A Celebration of Life memorial service will begin at 3:00 pm, with Rev. Cindy Osgood officiating at Dunnichay Funeral Home. A private burial will be scheduled at a later date at Parkview Cemetery in Alexandria with military honors conducted by the US Army.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Heart of Hoosierland Humane Society (Elwood) or Alzheimer’s Association, at the funeral home.
Online condolences can be given at www. dunnichayfuneralhome.com
