Submiited by: John C. Monk

Francis Cudney

May 9, 1921 - May 26, 2010
SOUTH BEND - Francis "Frank" Cudney, 89, of South Bend, IN, passed away at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, 2010, at Southfield Village, surrounded by members of his family. He was born in Tyner, IN on May 9, 1921 to Herbert Cudney and Jessie (Penrose) Cudney. On November 20, 1941 in South Bend, IN he married the former Frances Lorraine Kolupa. Frank is survived by his daughter, Sandra (Nelson) Vogel of South Bend, IN; and his son, William Cudney of The Villages, FL; grandchildren, Ryan Vogel, Justin Vogel and Nathan Vogel of South Bend, IN, Lindsey Vogel of Irvine, CA, Robert Cudney of Ft. Wayne, IN, Brian Cudney of St. Louis, MO, Jennifer King of Rushville, IL and Sarah Tharp of Gainesville, FL; and three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and brother, Bob Cudney. Frank was a proud member of the greatest generation. He was an Army Staff Sergeant and Section Leader serving in the European Theatre during World War II as a member of Company M, 259th Infantry, 65th Division. He was wounded twice in battle in Germany. After treatment for his first wounds, he returned to combat and was later wounded by German tank fire on April 21, 1945. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his valor in battle and several other medals. Frank was an engineer having worked at Studebaker, the Pontiac Division of General Motors, Jeep and finally AM General where he served as the plant manager. He retired from AM General at the end of 1984. Frank was a cordial, kind and gentle man who was loved deeply by his family, the many friends he made at Southfield Village and all who knew him. Private funeral services will be held the afternoon of Friday, May 28, 2010 at Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel followed by entombment at Highland Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Frank Cudney may be made to The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. 111 Sunnybrook Ct. South Bend, IN 46637. Online condolences may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.