Ronald Ray Rud, 80 of Chetek passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at Heatherwood Memory Care in Eau Claire.
Ron was born on October 26, 1937 to Arnold and Mildred (Tuff) Rud in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Richard Steger, and his sister, Marlene (Jim) Luginbill.
Ron graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School with honors in 1955 and served as a Storekeeper in the United States Coast Guard from 1956-1976. He circumnavigated the globe twice during his service, and was stationed in Alaska, Brooklyn, and Minneapolis. He retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
Upon returning to Wisconsin, Ron moved to the Chetek area and worked in real estate and rental properties. Ron was an avid collector and loved telling stories about his trips around the world. He owned many dogs throughout the years and was often seen sporting a new Cadillac or classic car. Ron was a member of Chetek Masonic Lodge #277 for 55 years.
Ron’s big heart and gift of gab will be fondly remembered by his Masonic brothers, friends and family.
Ron is survived by his nephews, Dean (Kristin) Luginbill of Sheboygan and Dennis (Teresa) Luginbill of Eau Claire; his great-nephews, Joe Luginbill and Zach Luginbill; great-nieces, Annisa Luginbill, Jenna Luginbill, Hannah Luginbill, and Lillian Luginbill; and some cousins.
Memorial services will be on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at 11:00 am at Smith Funeral Chapel with Rev. Sandra McKinney officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the funeral home on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eau Claire Humane Association. The Luginbill Family would like to especially extend their gratitude to the caring staff at Heatherwood.
Condolences to the family of Ron Rud. He was an old friend and comrade of a fellow Coastie!
Semper Paratus! I will miss you Ron!