John A. Rudy Sr. 1953-2025

John was born on Oct. 23, 1953, in Youngstown, to Joseph and Jane Kosinski Rudy.

A proud and lifelong East Side resident, John graduated from East High School in 1971. Upon graduation, John admirably followed in both of his older brother’s footsteps (Robert and Joe) by enlisting into the United States Marines Corps.

After proudly serving his country, John returned home to establish a career at Mercy Health in Youngstown, retiring as supervisor of maintenance, after 44 years.

Although John was known by many and loved by all, his heart always belonged to his family, whom he built with his wife of 52 years, Lenore Hollabaugh Rudy. Together, their love demonstrated that friendship was the foundation of stability and consistency that weathered the test of time and will continue on, until they see each other again.

Along with his wife, John leaves behind, to cherish in his memory, a devoted daughter, Dana (Rocky) Pusic of Austintown. Dana was her “father’s daughter,” and together they relished in the times they snuck away from Lenore and Rocky, to find some time for themselves. A bond that was undeniable, that even death will not overshadow. And to continue on his legacy, John leaves his namesake, John Andrew (or Rudy, which he is known by). John’s passion and dedication to his family, friends and career can be seen in how his son lives his life everyday, and in December, John was able to share in the opening of Rudy’s new restaurant and tavern in downtown Youngstown, the Varsity Club. The Varsity Club quickly became John’s favorite place to frequent, and it is a place that will forever reserve a seat for him at the bar, with a Michelob Ultra waiting.

Throughout all of the busyness and adventures John’s family had him intertwined with, he always made time for and looked forward to his time with friends, who were like family. John was a part of different bocce, bowling, and golf leagues throughout Youngstown, many of which were with his Mercy Health buddies. Undoubtedly, John’s absence will truly be missed.

Aside from his immediate family, John also adored and leaves behind his sister, Sue (Rudy) Rusch; brothers-in-law, Jim (Carla) and Joe Hollabaugh, and Rich Cancio; sister-in-law, Dee (Rudy) Sweeney; many nieces, nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews; and many friends.

John was preceded in death by both parents; Jane and Joseph Rudy Sr.; both brothers, Joseph and Robert; and sisters-in-law, Bebe Cancio and Karen Hollabaugh.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 13, at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home at 4442 South Ave., Boardman.

A prayer service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, followed by an honorable military salute at Calvary Cemetery, performed by the great men of VFW Post 9571 of Ellsworth.

Family and Friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support via phone call, text or email or you may visit the Book of Memories at ww.rossifunerals.com.

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