Herbert Joseph Rudolph

Herbert J. “Rudy” Rudolph, of Papillion, was born in New York City on November 21, 1934, the youngest of three children born to German immigrants. His childhood was not easy, living after age 7 in orphanages and foster homes until proudly enlisting in the U.S. Air Force on his 17th birthday to “get into the action and do his part” in the Korean War. He saw the world with the military, being in Japan and across the United States. Herb retired from the military in 1971, when he made Nebraska his permanent home.

Herb was a true patriot, and proud veteran, frequenting the Offutt Air Force Base over the years, spending Thanksgiving and Christmas with the troops when he could. He was an unashamed believer in Jesus Christ and faithfully attended church whenever the doors were open. He put his faith in God and country, never in bureaucracy. He was an amateur historian, writing over 300 emails and letters to this author over the last 25 years, detailing his life, his history, and the world around him, stopping only when his Elizabeth called him in for a meal. He collected memories and stories to retell, using such phrases as “between you, me, and the lamppost”, “bending your ear”, and “I’ve yammered on, now it’s your nickel”. Herb considered himself a displaced New York City kid, with fond memories of subway rides and beach days in the Rockaways. He enjoyed simple things, like a spicy meal, bacon on Sundays, and Starbucks coffee, and disliked constant sunny weather, saying that you needed cloudy days to appreciate the sun.

He was a good, kind gentleman with an easy, genuine smile, always looking for the bright side, despite not so bright beginnings. He was loyal friend, eager to keep up with those he cared for, and worried about, while never wanting to be a burden himself. He was a private man and a talented artist, taking great joy in his artist’s studio.

Herb died on January 4, 2021 due to complications of Covid-19. He is predeceased by his brother, Charles Rudolph, sister, Margaret Bellerett, and sister-in-law, Helen Bursell. In addition to his beloved wife of 55 years, Elizabeth Rudolph (nee Bursell), Herb is survived by five nephews, Dennis (Sue) Rudolph of Pennsylvania, Joseph Rudolph, and Charles (Doreen) Rudolph, both of New York, Lance Belleret and Kim (Sandra) Bellerett of California, a niece, Kathleen Goucher of Florida, a brother-in-law, Everett “Bill” (Carol) Bursell of Alaska, a sister-in-law, Marjorie (Harry) Hendrich of Kansas, and many great-nieces and nephews across the country. He also leaves behind Jack and Diane Rosencrans of Omaha, devoted friends of 50 years, and this author and great-niece, Jaclyn (Vivek) Nayar of New Jersey.

A private graveside service will be held at Omaha National Cemetery. Guests will be limited due to health regulations.