September 15, 1958 - July 23, 2025
Dudley Tyler McMahon, beloved husband to Cathy (Beach), devoted father to Jimmy Sardelli (Stephen Nessel) and Heather Sardelli (Alan Naumann), and proud grandfather to Holden Nessel (Taylor), Tyler Naumann, and Brandon Naumann, left this earth on July 23, 2025. He is reunited in Heaven with his loving mother, Myke McMahon.
Dudley was raised in Illiopolis, Illinois, alongside his four siblings: John McMahon (Jodi), Cheryl Rotramel (Rick), Andrew McMahon (Vicky), and Sandra Dial (Tim). A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and sports enthusiast, Dudley lettered in high school athletics and carried that competitive spirit throughout his life.
At just 15, Dudley discovered his passion for cooking, often preparing generous meals for friends. He became the first male student at his school to take Home Economicsan opportunity made possible by the encouragement of the exceptional principal, Mr. Dick Weber. This pivotal moment set the course for Dudley's future. He remained forever grateful to Dick and Carol Weber for their unwavering belief in him and continued support throughout his life.
Dudley graduated from Illiopolis High School in 1976 and fulfilled his dream of becoming a chef by attending the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, graduating in 1980. It was shortly after that he met the love of his life, Cathy.
In 1992, Dudley proudly represented the United States at the Culinary Olympics in Frankfurt, Germany, where he earned a Gold Medal - one of the many highlights of his distinguished culinary career. His work took him across the country, and Cathy, Jimmy, and Heather were always by his side, supporting his dreams.
Dudley's love for his grandsons - Tyler and Brandon Naumann - was immeasurable. His presence alone brought light and joy to any room they were in.
He also shared a special bond with his mother-in-law, Louise Beach, affectionately known to all as "Lou Lou" - a nickname lovingly started by Dudley himself.
Dudley looked forward to spending time every year at the Saratoga Race Track, where he enjoyed making memories with close friends and family.
Though he achieved great success throughout his career, nothing compared to the deep and abiding love he had for his adoring wife, Cathy. To know Dudley was to know just how deeply he cherished and adored his beautiful bride.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Dudley McMahon requests that memorial donations be made to one of the two places Dudley cherished deeply.
Culinary Institute of America, where Dudley graduated from in 1980.
Gifts may be made online: Culinary Institute of America https://securelb.imodules.com/s/898/17/interior.aspx?sid=898&gid=1&pgid=466&cid=1266
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Liver Disease Research and Education Fund (310769).
Gifts may be made online: Ohio State Liver Disease https://www.giveto.osu.edu/makeagift/details/310769?Source_Code=AGAG-TRM-S-PPMemTrib&Fund=310769
Or by mail:
The OSU Foundation
PO Box 736096
Chicago, IL 60673-6096