Loren Carl Rudolph, 81, died Tues. July 9, 2024. Loren was born October 6, 1942 in Salina, KS to Ed Sears and Opal (Layman). He grew up in Pilsen, KS and graduated from Center High School in Lincolnville in 1961. He married Judy Bonham of McPherson on Dec. 15, 1968, and spent 55 wonderful years with their daughters.
His love for his family and his Lord was obvious. In his final hours, he talked about “walking on the water and fishing with Jesus”. He held his cross tightly in his hands. He had asked if all his girls were with him. We were all there surrounding him and he said he was so happy with peace and joy in his heart.
He is preceded in death by Ed Sears, Pete and Mary Rudolph (parents), Opal and Robert Smith (Mother and Father), Sharon, Judy (wife), and Orval and Orlena Bonham (in-laws). He leaves behind “his girls”, as he would say, Lisa Unruh (daughter), Darla Rudolph (daughter), Jennifer (Derrick) Byran (daughter), Aaliyah Johnson (Caleb Caudell) (granddaughter), Bridget Rudolph (granddaughter), Larry (Ella) Rudolph (brother), Lenora Singleton (sister), Luella Jackson (sister), and many nieces and nephews he adored.
He was an army mechanic, police man, sheriffs reserve officer, and a car/truck mechanic. Other jobs Loren did consisted of hard work, especially when it came to using his hands. He also enjoyed family vacations. He went to California to visit his mother and father, and Oklahoma to visit Judy’s side of the family. Spending time with his siblings was very important to him, and they would hold holiday celebrations in different homes several times a year. These get-togethers included Adults-only card games (Pinochle and Pitch) and lots of conversation. He also had a love for fishing, camping, gardening, and attending sports events. All of this he enjoyed doing with family. His love and encouragement was always present with family as well as guidance and direction. Sometimes the advice was something we didn’t want to hear, but in the end it was the right thing we needed to hear all along. He was always ready to help his neighbors and friends. He had a heart of gold and would give you his last dime if you needed it. Loren enjoyed talking to his friends at Men’s coffee, sharing stories about his life experiences. He was full of life and made people laugh. Until the end, he would share memories with family and with anyone who would come to visit. He loved nature, especially birds. He had a collection of eagles and hummingbirds. He also had a collection of model cars. He also had a great love for his country, and would display the Red, White, and Blue American Flag.
A small child’s prayer Bible was found where he sat with a special page marked. I need you Jesus. My Jesus with all my heart and soul I want you. I cannot do without you. My soul needs you. My heart is ready for you. Come to me, Jesus come to me.
A celebration of life will be held mid-August 2024 at Grace Community Church in Hillsboro, KS. The date will be announced later.