John Lewis Gudavich, 77, of Hudson, Florida, born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, passed away on January 20, 2025 after a long and courageous battle with esophageal cancer. John dedicated his life to service, both in the military and to his community.
John proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years, achieving the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. His military career included a tour in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division, where he was awarded numerous medals for bravery, including the Army Commendation Medal; Overseas Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and more. Following his tour in Vietnam, John became a Criminal Investigator for the Army. While assigned in Korea, John was responsible for identification, arrest and prosecution of several military and civilian persons who were systematically diverting U.S. Army property worth millions of dollars. Following his distinguished Miliary career, John became a civilian CID Agent, serving as the Director for Economic Crime Investigations for the NE District. Later he served as the Special Agent in Charge of Economic Crime Investigations, Inspector General’s Office, District of Columbia.
John went onto become a Special Agent with the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, DC. In an attempt to take it easy, John moved to New Hampshire to retire. Not one to sit still, John started his 3rd or 4th career as an investigator for the US Attorney’s office in Concord, New Hampshire. When John finally retired and moved to Florida, he continued to serve his community as a Guardian ad Litem for Pasco County; He served in many capacities for the Order of Elks, most recently as the District VP for Central District; He served many capacities within the VFW; He was a Grand Knight and a District Representative with the Knights of Columbus. John was a strong believer and active in his church as well as the Chaplain for the US-CID Association.
John earned numerous commendations for his bravery and leadership. His commitment to his country was unwavering and he was a source of inspiration for all who knew him.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Donna Mace Gudavich, his children John A. (Lisa) Gudavich and Karen Gudavich-Bruce; His grandchildren August, Brianna and Alexander Gudavich and Kaylee and Joshua Bruce. He is pre-deceased by his brother Thomas Gudavich and his sister Hazel Furtado. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth (Betty) Pagliarini.
John is known for his dedication and compassion; he left a lasting impact on those that knew him. Most importantly he was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend to all he knew.
A funeral service to honor John’s life and service will be held at St. Michael Roman Catholic Church at 11 am, February 1, 2025. {8014 State Road 52, Hudson, FL}, followed by a gathering at the Elks Lodge on Dentin Avenue, Hudson FL.
Military honors will be rendered at the gravesite at Arlington Cemetery at a later date.
St. Michael Roman Catholic Church
Celia and Al Dendler
January 23, 2025, 5:01 pm
Donna and family,
Celia and I are truly sorry about John’s passing. He was a real inspiration to all Veterans, and his tireless contributions to the community was incredible. He will greatly be by missed the Elks, VFW, Knights of Columbus, family and all who knew him.
Rest in peace, John, with our Lord in Heaven.
Tracy Usry
January 23, 2025, 8:02 pm
Kristina and Tracy Usry
We are so very sorry for John’s passing. As you know, John was Tracy’s closest friend for over 47 years. Initially when with were in the US Army and then afterward. I came to know both you and John after Tracy and,I were married. We have always cherished the times we all spent together. We will miss John terribly. May John Rest in Peace and may GOD Bless you and your Daughter Karen and Son John.
Carolyn DeLorme and Family
January 23, 2025, 9:35 pm
Donna and family, I have such fond memories of the childhood days he would spend on my parent’s farm. He was a wonderful man and a special cousin. He will live on in all our hearts. He’ll be celebrated and honored now and always.
Fran and Dick Quinlan
January 24, 2025, 12:54 am
Donna, Karen, John, and family,
We are so saddened to learn of Johns passing.
So many happy memories come to mind when we remember our time spent with you and family.
Always the good times together in Florida, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and especially in the Catskills where we always laughed and enjoyed our family time together.
These happy memories are how I want to remember John.
Dick and I send our condolences to you all and hope you find comfort in knowing he is at rest.
We love you,
Always cousin Fran and Dick
Donna Fonseca
January 24, 2025, 1:44 pm
My deepest condolences to your family during this difficult time. He was a kind hearted genuine gentleman.
Sr. Attilia Mazzina
January 24, 2025, 2:40 pm
Dearest Donna, you are in our prayers🙏♥️. John will always be with you, protect you and your family.
Condoglianze!
With love,
Maria Pascuzzi
January 24, 2025, 4:10 pm
Dear Donna,
John was such a good man, a gentle giant. He was slso faith filled and is now with his God, joined with all those he loved and still living in you until the two of you meet again. And you will…
Many prayers for you, Karen, Jay and your grandchildren.
Maria
Terry and Darla Bell
January 28, 2025, 12:06 am
Dear Donna and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about John’s passing. Just a short while ago, he was so excited about making his workshop in your garage. He was very helpful to us on several occasions. We never met a man who was so happy to help so many people. We will miss him! R.I.P. our dear Friend. God bless you, Donna, your family and friends. Love and Prayers.
Joseph K Schwartz
January 30, 2025, 12:31 am
Dear Donna & Family,
So sorry for your loss. I served with John for two years in Kaiserslautern Germany. I consider him a true friend. We worked together well for 2nd Movements Region and we had many a good time together. I know you will miss him terribly. RIP!
Joe Schwartz
thomas depasquale
January 30, 2025, 8:19 pm
Tom and cass. Depasquale
Our deepest. Condolences to. Donna and their family. John was a fighter. His smile. Laughter and wonderful caring. Person he was will be deeply missed we have. Donna and her family in our thoughts and prayers prayers
Tony & Vickie Japuntich
January 30, 2025, 9:46 pm
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. We came to love John and his family at Fort Campbell and have great memories of the time we spent with them. May God bless you all during this time.