Rudolph A. Gaydos Jr.

Rudolph Albert Gaydos Jr., 90, of Urbana, formerly of Vernon CT, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026. He was born in Swoyersville, PA, on August 10, 1935, the son of Rudolph and Julia Gaydos Sr. He was predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Elizabeth Gaydos in 2003.

He is survived by his daughters, Margaret (William) Wink of New Hampshire and Stephanie (Patrick) Fonner of Savoy; grandchildren, Violet Wink, Andrew Wink, Hayden Wink, Phoebe Fonner, Rebecca Fonner, and Erin Fonner; and siblings Joan Roginski and Eugene Gaydos.

Rudolph proudly served in the United States Navy and as a member of the State Department, a period in his life that shaped his character and instilled in him a deep sense of duty and perseverance.

Throughout his life, he was known for his great sense of humor and the love of a good joke. He had a passion for ham radio, connecting with friends near and far through the airwaves. He loved amateur photography and videography, capturing moments and memories for family and friends to cherish.

Rudolph was a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge Evergreen 114 in South Windsor, CT, where he was a master Mason and member of the Grand Lodge of CT. He was also a longstanding member of the Sphinx Temple in Newington CT. He was a dedicated, lifelong member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hartford, Connecticut.

Rudolph will be remembered fondly for the joy he brought to those around him and the legacy of kindness, service, and laughter he leaves behind.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Champaign Chapel, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820, is honored to assist the family with funeral arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made in Rudolph’s name to any local VA facility or the Emanuel Lutheran Church of Hartford, CT.

Please join Rudolph’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.