John A. Tudor

John A Tudor
Born Ilkeston, Derbyshire England June 24th, 1946, to parents Edith and Harry Tudor
John Tudor passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9th, at 6 p.m. in Minnetonka, surrounded by those who loved him dearly. After a decade-long battle with dementia, he took his final breath, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by many.
John was a pillar in the Minnesota soccer community, influencing and developing thousands of players through his work with Tonka United, CC United, and the State of Minnesota. He also coached at Holy Family High School where he was beloved by every player who had the privilege of learning from him. His passion for the game was contagious, and over his 40-year coaching career, he not only shaped skilled athletes but instilled a lifelong love for the sport for so many.
John was later inducted into the Minnesota Hall of fame, and it was here that he took his place righteously alongside many that had contributed to the game in the same way
His impact extended to the professional level, where he played a role in shaping Minnesota soccer's foundation. Working alongside Buzz Lagos, he contributed to the Minnesota Thunder, laying the groundwork for the MLS team the state proudly supports today.
Before his coaching career, John was a dedicated and hardworking player. He began his playing days at his hometown club, Ilkeston Town, before turning professional with Coventry City. He later played for Sheffield United, Newcastle United, and Stoke City, finishing his career in Belgium with Ghent. Among all his teams, Newcastle held a special place in his heart-the roar of the Geordie crowd remained a cherished memory throughout his life.
While John was deeply devoted to soccer, his greatest love was his family. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren and loved ones, always finding ways to stay connected to the game he adored. Through the challenges of his illness, his wife, Anne, showed unwavering strength, providing him with daily care and love until the very end.
John will be missed by many, but his legacy lives on-not only in the soccer world but in the hearts of those who knew him as Opar, Dad, and Husband. His impact will never be forgotten.
John is joined in death by Brother Brian and Sister Anne, and mum and Dad Edith and Harry
John is survived by wife Anne, children Shelley and Jonathan and Grandchildren Gracie, Brianna and Violet
Funeral service will be held at kick off time of Saturday March 1st, 3pm at St John's Lutheran Church, 2451 Fairview Lane, Mound, MN 55364
Proceeded by a social gathering at Brit's Pub upstairs from 5pm to 9pm.
Please come dressed in your team colors for all events to share a memory of John
In lieu of any donations in memory of John please visit the Walk to End Alzheimer 's web page (alz.org), click the donate button then "Donate to a Team" section, and enter "John Tudor", this will take you to the team page to donate under John Tudors name.
All donations will go directly towards research for the Alzheimer's Association. https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?idb=1640893205&df_id=60464&60464.donation=form1&FR_ID=18698&mfc_pref=T&PROXY_ID=936370&PROXY_TYPE=22