Arla Jean Rudin

Arla grew up on a farm in Prairie Farm, Wisconsin, and graduated from Prairie Farm High School in 1956. Guided by her dream of becoming a teacher, she attended the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. After teaching in Wisconsin and Minnesota, her love of new adventures and warmer weather led her to Southern California in 1970. There, she taught in the Ontario-Montclair School District for 30 years. Throughout her career, Arla was a devoted elementary school teacher, and in retirement she embraced her role as a full-time grandmother—both callings she fulfilled with patience, grace, and deep care for everyone.

In June of 1973, Arla married her beloved husband, Gary. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, love, and a shared joy of travel. Arla is survived by her husband, Gary; her daughters, Heidi & Eddie Bustamante, Heather & Craig Bissett, and Nichole & John Meister; her grandchildren, Gabe, Zoe, Kas, Brynn, Naveah, Mia, and Sage; her sister, Betty Ann Bures; and her brothers, Willard Murray and Thomas Murray.

Family was at the center of Arla’s heart—she was truly the matriarch. She held an unwavering love for her grandchildren and took great pride in teaching, guiding, and nurturing them. Her compassion extended beyond people to animals, whom she cared for with the same gentleness that defined her life. Those who knew Arla will remember her quiet wisdom, steady strength, and the comfort of her presence.

Arla passed peacefully, surrounded by her family, on December 16, 2025, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Her legacy lives on through the love of her family, the many students she taught, and the countless lives touched by her kindness.

A visitation will be held at Draper Mortuary, located at 811 North Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762, on December 29, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A committal service will take place at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518, on December 30, 2025, from 11:15 am to 11:30 am. Following this, a funeral service will be held at Shepherd of the Hills, 6080 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm on the same day.

Arla Jean Rudin's legacy of love, patience, and dedication to her family and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.