Gerald Rudolph

Gerald R. Rudolph, Sr.

Gerald R. Rudolph, Sr., 90, of Rockford, IL, passed away Sunday, July 23, 2023, at Cherryvale Place, with his family at his side. Born September 19, 1932, in Rockford, the son of Walter and Loretta (Yeske) Rudolph. After Loretta’s passing, his father married Mabel Ulrich and they raised Gerald. Veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving in the U.S. Army. Married Catherine M. Maurici on November 26, 1955, in Loves Park, IL. They were married 63 years and she was the love of his life. After her passing, Gerald mentioned every day that he loved and missed her. Employed by several area contractors before owning and operating Rudolph Masonry Inc. since 1977. Gerald enjoyed playing golf, bowling, and softball for the LLL Club where he served as past president, board chairmen, and was instrumental in starting several of the dinner-dances. His favorite activity was dancing with his beautiful wife where they always stole the show. He recently received a lifetime member award from Northern Illinois Building Contractors Association. His contribution to the Northern Illinois Area can be seen in all the buildings he built with beauty, durability, quality, and craftmanship. Jerry was known for his generosity. Whether it was family, friends, or a complete stranger, he would grab the bill first and help those in need. Most of all, he was proud of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all family. Jerry’s face always lit up when his family entered the room. Upon exiting, he told them he loved them and then added: I love all my kids. Survivors include his sons, Gerald (Jacqueline) Rudolph, Jr., David Rudolph, Ronald Rudolph, and Bruce (Roberta) Rudolph; daughter, Julie (Robert) Behmer; special aunt, June Yeske; grandchildren, Molly (Sumo) Bhattacharya, Gerald (Christina) Rudolph, III, Rebekah (Anthony) Soppa, Angelica (Joseph) Goral, Brian (Gabriela) Rudolph, Ann (Eric Riha) Rudolph, Gabrielle Behmer, Robert Behmer, John Behmer; great-grandchildren, Samantha and Sabina Bhattacharya, Carter, Gerald, IV, “J.R.” and David Rudolph, Joey and Sean Goral; sisters, Janice Luter and Joyce (Dennis) Johnson; and sister-in-law, Virginia Rudolph. Predeceased by his parents; wife; daughters-in-law, Sheri Rudolph, and Paula Rudolph; granddaughter, Margaret Rudolph; brother, Richard Rudolph; sister, Marjorie Hartzell; and brothers-in-law, Joe Luter and Edward Hartzell.

Service at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with visitation from 8 a.m. to service time. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Margaret M. Rudolph Trust a 501(c)(3) organization, for cancer related causes.