Michael Edward Rud

 Michael Edward Rud, 65 years of age, passed away suddenly on June 30th 2021, from a cardiac event, at home in Zimmerman, MN with family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Betsy) Rud, his children Ami Rud of Mpls MN, Alicia Heim (Rhys Grange) of Graceville MN, Ethan Rud (Lauren Krieger) of Zimmerman MN , his siblings Sandy & Paul Lemke of Otsego MN, Tammy & Ron Klever of Belgrade MN, his grandchildren, Selena Evans, Missy Heim, and soon to be born Noah Rud, great grandson August Russell, and nieces, nephews, relatives, family, friends, and beloved pets Leeta, Tucker, Zoey, and grandpets Chevy, Gizmo, Bear, Bella, Kona. Mike was preceded in death by his parents Paul & Donna Rud.

Michael Edward Rud was born in Saint Paul MN, on 04/21/1956, to Donna Mae (Schrofer) Rud, and Paul Roger Rud. He spent most of his childhood growing up in Paynesville, MN, and graduated from Paynesville High School.

Mike had a daughter, Ami, from his first marriage. Mike married Elizabeth Ann Kaufman (Betsy) on 08/22/1982. They lived for 25 years in North Branch, MN and 14 years in Zimmerman, MN. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Alicia & Ethan.

Mike’s Dad was a Truck Driver and taught Mike the trade. Mike worked for various companies and at one point bought his own truck traveling over the road for several years. He was one of the very best in the trade and was dedicated to doing a good job and helping others. Always a cheery phone call away! Most recently, Mike worked for Medline Industries out of Rogers, MN. He loved his run and enjoyed working for Medline.

Mike had many passions that he shared with his family, however, above all else, his family meant the most to him. Every chance he received, he would talk about his family and how proud he was of his children, his wife and grandchildren. Mike would share stories with anyone he came into contact with.

Mike loved to play cribbage, pool, cards, poker and shared that love with his children, family and friends. Mike played on pool leagues for several years and in cribbage tournaments. As of late, he enjoyed playing cribbage with anyone who was willing to try to best his “lucky horseshoe.” 

Mike also loved to fish and his favorite fishing partner was his son, Ethan. Ethan and Mike shared a fishing boat for many years, that they spent summers out on the lake with. When Mike and Ethan would come back from fishing, they would filet their catch and enjoy a fish fry.

Some of Mike’s additional hobbies and interests included spending time at the cabin off of Leech Lake in Minnesota and ATVing through the trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He was a smart man who was capable of fixing almost anything. 

Mike was a mentor to anyone and everyone. He could often be found, helping a friend in need, sharing his knowledge to guide someone through a task or just being a shoulder for someone to vent to. Mike is often described as the type of person who would give his shirt off his back for someone who needed it. 

Mike loved deeply and unconditionally. He was a man of honor, honesty, and forgiveness. His heart was full of love for his family, friends, and anyone he met. The Lord blessed us with a wonderful and special man. Mike loved the Lord and in the most recent years made huge strides in his journey with the Lord. We, his family and friends, are so proud of him. He will forever be with us. We are comforted to know that Mike is basking in the fullness and love of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Mike's Celebration of Life:  Thursday, July 8, 2021:

VISITATION: 4:30 PM   SERVICE:  5:30 PM

 Luncheon & fellowship  following the service at the church, lower level.  Deacon Mark Barder will be presiding.  Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 804 7th Ave South, Princeton, MN 55371. http://www.christourlightmn.org In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family. 

Mike was all about fellowship! He loved entertaining, visiting, and spending time with people. We hope you can join the fellowship following the service. Also, feel free to say a prayer and light a candle for Mike at the church.