Dr. John E. Rudnik

The Drillin’ Gator

April 4, 1958 – December 13, 2024

Dr. John E. Rudnik, a devoted father, accomplished dentist, and loyal Gator Football fan, passed away on December 13, 2024 after a lengthy cancer battle. Born on April 4, 1958 in Lincolnwood, Illinois, John was the fourth son, born on the fourth day of the fourth month – a detail he loved to share.

John graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, where his love of Gator football took root. He later completed his dental degree from Northwestern Dental School.

Returning to Fort Lauderdale, John built a successful and respected dental practice, earning admiration for his, at times, heroic dentistry and genuine care for patients. He took immense pride in his work, always striving to bring smiles to his patient’s faces – literally and figuratively.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John’s greatest joy came from his children, whom he adored and was immensely proud of. Ask any patient!

John is survived by his wife, Nancy, his children John Jr. and Sarah, his brothers Gene, Robert and Mike, brother-in-law Jim Kelly and sisters Barbara and Mary, numerous nieces and nephews and countless friends and patients whose lives he touched. He is predeceased by his sister Nancy. His family and loved ones will remember him for his larger-than-life personality, his warm and generous heart, sense of humor and fun-loving antics. John’s love of Gator football, Jimmy Buffet and Bud Light was legendary.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, December 22 from 2:00 to 5:00 at Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home, 4061 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the 100 Years of Football Endowment at the University of Florida.

John E. Rudnik – dentist, father, Gator fan, fisherman, Parrothead, and friend – may your journey continue on calm waters. We’ll raise a Bud Light to you, always.