Ronald (Rudy) Rudolph passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 29, 2024.

He was born on September 22, 1944, to Arthur and Evelyn Rudolph. Rudy was one of ten children. He married Donna Baker on April 20, 1965.

Rudy started his work career installing basements with D.A. Campo, later moving on to Sankey Construction. He retired from Laborers Local 477 in 1999. Rudy was a hard worker and instilled his work ethic in his three children.

In his younger years, he drag raced with his father-in-law, Walter. Rudy was an avid poker player, gun collector, enjoyed motorcycles, and taking road trips to the boat.

After retirement, he enjoyed feeding stray and not so stray animals in the neighborhood. Some of these strays included cats, dogs, two turkeys, and a pig.

Rudy could build or repair anything. He was talented beyond compare.

He enjoyed trips to Walmart and wasn’t one to avoid conflict. He would return home with a new story every trip. Rudy told many stories, but his favorites were those of his grandchildren. He adored spending time with them and leaned in to hear every adventure they had to share.

Rudy was a strong, loving, and generous man. His kindness will live on in his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Robert Rudolph.

Rudy is survived by his wife, Donna; son, Richard (wife, Heidi) Rudolph; daughter, Debby (husband, Jamison) Boggs; grandchildren, Justin, Christopher, James (Andrea), Robert Jr., Nathan, Ocean (Levi), Luna (Isaac), and Noah (Malia); and multiple great-grandchildren and great-grand kittens.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League in his name. Please send any flowers and condolences to Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.

The family will be hosting a private memorial service.

Cremation was provided by Lincoln Land Cremation Society.