Richard "Rick" K. Rudie

Richard Kent “Rick” Rudie, age 62, of Orland Park, IL passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020 in Sparta, WI.

Rick was born in Richland Center, WI on September 30, 1958 to Kaye Don and Beverly (Bender) Rudie. After graduating from Rockford West High School, Rick attended Northern Illinois University where he graduated in 1980 with a degree in Business. Rick married Elyssa Hartman and had two children, Timothy and Erica, before later divorcing in 1998. Rick was a Titan in the transportation industry, which began in 1987 with Interdom, an international shipping and railroad company.  He was a prolific entrepreneur with companies ranging from trucking to haunted houses, and his business acumen was unparalleled. Over the decades he built an empire of companies, and leaves behind a legacy supported by his faithful employees, many of whom have been with him since the beginning.

Rick was also a talented home designer and art collector. He built his homes with the desire to host the most memorable party atmosphere for those he loved, and especially for his family during his favorite time of year, Christmas. Nothing made him happier than sharing his homes and hobbies with his children, extended family, and friends all of whom will miss his unique laugh and story-telling abilities. Rick was a passionate family historian and helped thousands of families find their ancestors’ final resting places through his archiving efforts. He was an avid golfer, a devoted Packer fan, and tireless expert hunter.

Rick is survived by his beloved children Timothy, and Erica (Jacob) Rudie; his mother Beverly; brothers Alan (Laura), Steven (Barb), and Mike (Tammy); sisters Linda (Tyler) Trugillo, and Debra (Tony) Rubasch; nieces and nephews David (Julie), Rebekah (Ben), Steven (Aneliz), Liz (Jesse), Jeff, Melyssa (Kenneth), Donovan, Becky, Michelle (Mark), Jalen, Olivia, and Griffin as well as 16 great nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Kaye Don.

Through his businesses, Rick built a network of friendships that he cherished greatly and which made work a labor of love. A public event in Illinois will be announced at a later date.

A private family service for Rick will be held on December 28, 2020.

The Seland Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be given at selandsfuneralhome.com.

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