Edward John Rudenga

Edward John Rudenga (age 99) passed away on September 14, 2023.  He was the loving husband of Sylvia (nee Van Til).  Parents John and Nellie, both deceased. Three children: Jack (Liz) Rudenga, Russ (Elizabeth) Rudenga, and Joan (Adam) Wegner. Seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.  Brother Bill (Joyce). Preceded in death by sisters Nellie (Roger) Van Dellen, Carolyn Rudenga, and Julie (Don) Eggebean.

Edward was a charter member at New Life Christian Reformed Church in Highland, Indiana (formerly Second Christian Reformed Church.) He remained active in the church, serving as an elder on church council several times.  Edward loved music and enjoyed singing.  He performed as a member of the acapella group, Men of A-Chord for many years.  He was actively involved in men’s Bible study and other church-sponsored activities.  Even in his late nineties, Edward continued to pour over Scripture and highlight passages to share with others.  He was always willing to talk about his faith and to encourage others with a Bible verse.  Prayer was an important part of his daily routine and he often asked others how he could pray for them.  He was gracious and generous with his time, always remaining positive. 

After finishing as salutatorian of his high school class, Edward attended Calvin College for 1 ½ years before enlisting in the Navy.  After boot camp, he received four months training at the University of Chicago to become a signalman, skilled in semaphore, who signaled between ships using flags or lights.  He made six convoy trips across the Atlantic, bringing supplies to the troops in Europe who were fighting in World War II.  After the war, he returned home and finished his education at Calvin College.   

In 1950 he married Sylvia Van Til and settled in Highland, Indiana where they raised their three children.  Edward worked at Highland Lumber & Supply Company for his entire career in the purchasing, sales, and advertising departments.  In retirement, he volunteered for various Christian organizations and charities. Edward also served on the school board of Highland Christian School and Illiana Christian High School.

Edward’s sense of humor was always present and he kept those around him laughing and smiling.  He loved his family and always had a joke, story, or cartoon to share with them.  Along with his wife, he faithfully attended the sporting events, birthdays, musical performances, and other activities of his grandchildren.

Visitation will be Monday, September 18, 2023 at New Life Christian Reformed Church (3010 Ridge Road, Highland, IN) from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the funeral service following.  The private burial will be Tuesday at Hope Cemetery, Highland, IN.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Highland Christian School, Illiana Christian High School, or Trinity Christian College. 

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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