Rich was a 1965 graduate of Salem High School. He then went on to Indiana University to earn his Associate degree. He was also a graduate of the Indiana College of Mortuary Science.
Rich was a veteran of the US Army, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also referred to as the Old Guard, the oldest active-duty infantry regiment of the Army. He was stationed at Fort Myer, VA, and his duties took him between the Pentagon and White House, as well as assisting with honors at Arlington National Cemetery. It was after his discharge that he went to mortuary school and has been a licensed funeral director over 50 years.
While in mortuary school, he worked at Flanner Buchanan, primarily at the former Fall Creek location. He briefly owned funeral homes in Redkey and Dunkirk, IN, before selling the homes and moving to Columbus. He began his career with Myers Funeral Service in 1986, where he was currently employed. Rich loved being a funeral director and helping people in their time of need. He will be deeply missed.
Rich loved model trains and was a member of the Model Train Club of Columbus. He was also a member of the Indiana Funeral Director Association, American Legion Post 24, and St. Johns Lodge #20.
Rich also loved traveling, especially by cruise ship. He visited many countries in Europe and Central America.
He is survived by his loving son, Chris Rudder of Columbus; and cousins, Terri and Mary Beth.
Preceding him in death were his parents; a son, Nic Rudder; and sisters, Lynda Rudder, and Sherry Rudder (who passed on the same day as him).
In keeping with his wishes, all services will be private a later date. He will be laid to rest in the family plot at Crown Hill Cemetery, Salem, IN.
Memorials may be directed to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, 680 Murphy Ave. SW, Suite 1090, Atlanta, GA 30310.
Please leave a fond memory of Rich at www.Myers-Reed.com or www.Hathaway-Myers.com.
