Thomas Dudei

Thomas David Dudei passed away unexpectedly on Thursday June 13, 2025 at the age of 77 at his home in Plover.

 Born September 19, 1947, to Hilmer (Bud) & June (Bender) Dudei in Berlin, WI. The family moved to Plainfield when Bud & June purchased a parcel of land and constructed Bud’s Drive In, which later they sold and became Ron’s Drive In. 

Tom grew up in Plainfield and graduated from Tri County Area Schools in 1965. After high school, he attended Mid State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids where he earned his building degree that started his lifelong career. 

Tom grew up playing basketball, baseball, track and football. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Designing, building, and remodeling were Tom’s passion. His father brought him into the business when he was young with Hilmer Dudei & Son to later include his younger brother Doug and form Hilmer Dudei & Sons. Dudei Construction LLC would be their final chapter, building hundreds of homes, cabins, and commercial buildings in the central Wisconsin area. The Plainfield Library, Village of Plainfield office & dental office as well as the Hancock Library were just a few of their projects. Tom gave back to his community as a youth sport coach and scout leader. Always wanting to stay busy, Tom often helped family and friends on the weekends with home improvement projects and cleanups. The family cabin in Hatfield, the Hemp’s cabin and Buck Hill land in Sherwood, WI where his favorites. He loved his ‘72 Chevy truck and Corvettes were always his passion and he owned many during his lifetime. If you looked in his truck or garage, you would see he loved to tinker. Tom had more tools, guns, knives, and equipment than any one person should own. A gifted talker and storyteller, he would enjoy engaging just about anyone in conversation about any topic. Friends and family could always count on him to help with any project. An offering of cookies or sweets was always welcomed when he stopped at the house to chat, which he did often. Always young at heart, Tom continued to work part time to stay active and fit until his death. There will be a painful void in our hearts and lives. 

Tom is survived by his children, Trent (Jill) Dudei of Mosinee, Troy (Stephanie) Dudei of Holmen, Tyler (Val) Dudei of Plainfield, Haley (Jordyn) Dudei of St. Petersburg, FL, his grandchildren Matthew, Brett, Alex, Athena, Will, Helena, his sisters Julie (Rick) Beggs of Bancroft, Cindy (Chuck) Johnson of Hancock, brother Doug (Lorrie) Dudei of Plainfield, ex-wife Wendy (Mark) Stevens of Wautoma and many cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends. Proceeding him in death were his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Shirlee (Hank) Baillod.

 The family would like to thank the Plover Police department and EMT staff for their fast response, help, and care during this difficult time. Stahl funeral home and Pastor Eric Hughes are assisting the family with arrangements.