John Peter Gudris, 89, passed away in peace on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at his home in Clyde, NC.

Born on October 1, 1936, in Tukums, Latvia, John was the son of the late Vladislavs and Marija Gudris. He was preceded in death by his wife Harriette Gudris, his sister Ann Sherrill and his aunt Salma Saukans.

John and his family left Latvia just after World War II and eventually emigrated to the United States. They first lived in Bryson City before settling in Clyde.

John enlisted in the military and served over thirty years in both the U.S. Army and National Guard. He reached the rank of Seargent and was a paratrooper for the 82nd Airborne.

He worked for over 25 years as a machine operator at both the Champion and later International Paper mill in Canton. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, kayaking, and gardening, especially growing flowers that he enjoyed sharing with friends and neighbors.

John is survived by his only son Erik Gudris, his brother Peter Gudris, his great niece Monica Green, and extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, August 22nd at Wells Funeral Home, in Canton, NC.

The care of Mr. Gudris has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.