Gay R. Rudrud

Gay Rodney Rudrud, 85, of Moorhead, MN, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Sanford Broadway in Fargo, ND.

Gay was born on May 17, 1939, in Grafton, ND, to Gerhard “Doc” and Eva M. (Trennum) Rudrud. He spent his early years in Grafton before moving with his family to Moorhead, MN, where he graduated from high school in 1957. During his high school years, Gay worked at Shorty’s Shoe Shop, a place that held fond memories for him as he began shaping his work ethic and career.

After high school, Gay pursued a career as a plumber. On November 26, 1960, he married the love of his life, Lorna Sannes, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead. Together, they built a life in Moorhead and raised their two children, Yvonne Gayle and Shane Rodney.

Gay was a proud and skilled master plumber who dedicated 44 years of service to Sherman Plumbing, retiring in 2001. He was a longtime member of the Local 300 Union and took immense pride in his work. After retirement, Gay and Lorna spent many happy winters in Alabama, where Gay was honored to have the unique opportunity to assist in the restoration of the historic USS LST 325 Ship.

An avid outdoorsman, Gay enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. He embarked on numerous hunting trips to Canada and relished time in nature. In his later years, Gay developed a passion for woodworking and golf. His love of softball began in high school, where he played on the Shorty’s Shoe Shop team, winning multiple tournaments and state championships.

Gay’s family was his greatest joy. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lorna; daughter, Yvonne Rudrud of Moorhead; grandchildren Trevor (Nikki) Pearson, Nicholas Pearson, Nathan (Nicole) Pearson, Scott (Christina) Rudrud, and Joseph Rudrud; and was a proud “Grandpa Great” to his six cherished great-grandchildren, Piper, Maksim, Isaac, Sophia, Ariel, and Emma.

Gay was preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Eva; his son, Shane Rudrud; grandson, Rodney Rudrud; and sister, Karen Royster.

On behalf of Gay, the family would like to extend a large and heart felt thank you to all the caring Nurses, Doctors, and Staff of both the Roger Marris Cancer Center and the Hospice House at Sanford Health on Broadway.

A gathering of family and friends will begin at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 24, 2025, followed by a celebration of Gay’s life at 11:00 AM at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Moorhead, MN. Gay will be laid to rest at Moorhead Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are with Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service, Moorhead, MN.