James William "Bill" Rudy peacefully passed on Tuesday April 26th, 2016 in his home surrounded by loved ones. Bill leaves a legacy of facing challenges with dignity and grace.  He was born March 18, 1951, the son of the late Robert W. Rudy, and Bonnydell (Weber) Rudy currently of Green Valley, AZ.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Jane (Hunter) Rudy, children William Evan Rudy and wife Marena Rudy of Chicago, IL, and daughter Anna Weber Rudy and fiance Paul Ruflin also of Chicago, IL.  Bill has one grandson, Campbell James Rudy, and a granddaughter due in August. Siblings include Patricia and George LaNoue of Baltimore, MD, Jane and Michael Levine of Danville, CA, and Robert Rudy, Jr and Sally Rudy of Troy, OH. He is also survived by brothers and sisters-in-laws as well as many nieces and nephews who were of great importance to him.

Mr. Rudy graduated from Covington High School, Class of 1969.  He was a 1973 graduate of Miami University, and a Member of the Charter class of LEAD at the Ohio State University.  Mr. Rudy was fourth generation owner of Rudy Inc. in Covington and West Milton, a family grain business in operation over 107 years.  He was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, Troy OH where he served many years on the Vestry and as a choir member. He was a member and Past President of the West Milton Rotary. He was a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a former member of the Covington Optimist Club. Bill served as a member of the UVMC Foundation Board, and member of the Dayton Philharmonic Choir.  He was lifetime member of the Stillwater Valley Ski Team.

Bill and his devoted wife were a love story.  Bill passed away on their 41st wedding anniversary. Although they shared a difficult earthly journey with Bill's 20 year history of ALS, they persevered cherishing their time together and as a family, always teaching the importance of having a grateful heart. He was most grateful for his loving children who steadfastly stood by his side. He was so proud of the persons they had become, their choices, their successes, their compassion.  Bill was an avid reader of history, the nature of mankind, and theology. He was a pianist and appreciated music of all kinds.  He was passionate about sports, whether coaching, playing or spectating.  He held dear his many friends, staff and caregiver, and their devotion to him over so many years. He valued humility and kindness. Bill exhibited an inner strength and integrity, an ability to never question his fate, a keen sense of humor, and the courage to always 'take the high road'. He rose above every obstacle with grit, a twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Troy.  Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery in Covington.  Friends may call from 4-8 PM on Monday at Baird Funeral Home in Troy.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the James William "Bill" Rudy Memorial Fund in care of the Troy Foundation, 216 W Franklin St, Troy, OH 45373, or Canine Companions for Independence, CCI,4989 OH-37, Delaware, OH 43015.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bairdfuneralhome.com.

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