Carl B. Udry, Jr.

Carl Bernard Udry, Jr., 94, passed away peacefully January 29, 2024. He was born in Yonkers, NY to Dorothy Udry (Potter) and Carl Udry, Sr. and was brother to William (Dorothy Berg), all deceased. Carl was an extraordinarily caring and devoted husband to Jane Udry (Bucher) for their 64 years of marriage, before her passing. He is survived by his children: Charles (Nina Petricone), Larry (Kirsten Lillegard), Eileen (Tom Fitton), Anne (Kevin Bjella), Eddy, and Martha Udry, and his grandkids: Emmy, Lela, Cailah, Kyle, Eli, Miles and Ruby. 

Carl and this brother, Bill were born in Yonkers NY and they enjoyed their early years there. A move to Cincinnati and into Purcell High School allowed for friendships that lasted his lifetime.  In high school, he pursued his love of music by becoming a drum major. After Purcell, he went on to obtain a Masters Degree in Accounting from Xavier University. Soon after, Carl enlisted in the Army Officer Training school and served in the German occupation as a lieutenant in the First Armored Division.

When Carl returned from his military service and he met “Janie” at a dance hall. They soon married and started a family as Carl began his career as a CPA with US Playing Cards. Over time, as he grew with the company, he was promoted to Chief Financial Officer and later he became Midwest Comptroller for Diamond International (which had acquired Playing Cards). In the 80’s, he briefly worked at Cincinnati Gear. 

In the 70’s Carl and Jane bought a family farm in Indiana as a place for family to enjoy the outdoors together, ride horses, hike, and perhaps, to instill in his kids some of his strong work ethic. He spent many hours on his tractor mowing fields, checking on cows and fences, sporting his crusty cowboy hat.  Carl relished farm time- the landscape, lifestyle, and family time. 

Carl had a very active and rich faith life. A lifelong practicing Catholic and Knight of Columbus (4th degree), he exemplified a life of devotion and service. He frequently attended retreats in Gethsemani, volunteered for St. Vincent de Paul, and was a long time soup kitchen volunteer. He attended mass often (even virtually) and read daily reflections.   

Carl loved all manner of sports. A long time Bengals fan (or in his words “the Bungles”) he later became an avid FC Cincinnati fan, critiquing games with the best of them. He was quite the sportsman himself, rumored to be a decent golfer and handball player. His infectious spirit of sport engaged his kids and instilled in them that same love. 

One of Carl’s strongest attributes was his tenacity and strength of character. Once he set his sights on something, he would doggedly see it through. One day, he forever gave up smoking pipes, cigars, and his Old Grand Dad cold turkey, without even mentioning it as a goal. As he advanced in age, he committed to keeping his mind and body and spirit in the best condition possible although he did love this chocolates and Oreos. He worked the most challenging Sudokus, kept finding ways to create new spreadsheets, and sought answers to satisfy his insatiably curious mind. Also, right up until the end, he continued his daily workouts to maintain his physical strength.  

Carl and Jane’s 64 years together exemplified a very special love and devotion. He absolutely adored his beloved wife Jane and, after her passing, mentioned that he missed her daily. Although Carl and Jane have several years apart, there is some solace knowing they are now together.

Memorial mass will be Friday, February 2, 2024 at 11am at Church of the Nativity of Our Lord, 5935 Pandora Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213. A Celebration of Life/Remembrances gathering will be Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 2:30-4 pm at Berkeley Square Retirement Center, Haith Hall; Hamilton, OH 45013. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: St Francis Seraph Ministries, 1615 Republic St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. Donate