November 20, 1938 - July 13, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected but peaceful passing of Rudy.
Born in Nanaimo and raised in Union Bay, Rudy was a log truck driver for MacMillan Bloedel in Kelsey Bay since 1966 where he drove alongside his brother Steve for 35 years. His driving career started with a chain drive Kenworth. From 1976 - 1998 he drove the same truck, an off-highway logging truck number H-52, for 23 years and was meticulous about keeping it like new. When M&B sold to Weyerhaeuser he drove a highway truck for 2 years before retiring. During those 2 years when they finally got in a truck bearing his old number, 52, he switched to that one. He loved driving truck, the logging community, and always enjoyed sharing stories from those days.
In his retirement he loved being out in nature, was an avid bird watcher and had many pet squirrels. He also loved going to A&W for coffee with brother "Stevie" and enjoyed the conversations and camaraderie within their coffee group. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his generous and kind nature. He loved to chat, loved history, learning new things, reading, and was a wonderful accordion player.
Rudy will be missed by his brother Steve (Leona), niece Naomi (Nico), nephew Kevin, cousin Bernie and many cherished friends. He is predeceased by his father Nick, and mother Elsie.
Rudy wished to be cremated with his ashes spread on the mountain where he used to log. To rest out in nature with the birds, squirrels and the trees.
H-52
I've driven my last switchback
My heavenly dispatcher called me in
The key is in the off position
This was my last haul home. Don't be sad, remember the good
I've lived a life I loved
Share my stories, feed the birds and squirrels
And keep on trucking how you would.