James “Jim” Rudolph, age 81

He married Helen (Brown) Rudolph on May 13, 1967, at Santa Claus Methodist Church in Santa Claus, Indiana. Together, they shared 58 loving years of marriage—a true partnership filled with devotion and adventure.

 He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Marcia Rudolph. His love for Marcia was deep and enduring, and we find peace knowing they are reunited. 

He is survived by his wife, Helen Rudolph of Jasper, Indiana; his daughter, Ginger Hedinger, and her husband, Kurt, also of Jasper; his grandchildren, Kelli Schrieber and her husband, Tim, of Fenton, Missouri; Renee Hedinger and Nicholas Hedinger, both of Indianapolis, Indiana; and his great-granddaughter, Margot Schrieber. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon Held, Lafayette, IN and his brother, Ed Rudolph, Wilmington, NC. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Rudolph and brother-in-law David Held. 

A lifelong farmer, Jim spent many years raising grain and livestock. After retiring from farming, he and Helen continued to embrace life—RVing to 49 states, including Canada and Mexico, and together traveling to all 50 states and over 35 countries around the world. The last few years they spent wintering in Florida. He enjoyed playing cards and board games - especially with family, tending his garden, making homemade wine, and square dancing with friends. Jim was known for his quiet strength, sharp wit, and deep commitment to the people he loved. He had a strong work ethic and a steady presence, paired with a teasing sense of humor and a heart that gave in quiet, generous ways. 

Throughout his life, Jim welcomed others into his home and heart, including three exchange students he considered “bonus sons”: Juan Pablo Brons of Waterloo, Belgium; Matthieu Cherrier of Vienna, Austria; and Esteban Soto of Santiago, Chile.

 He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Boone Township. A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:30 p.m., on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Boone Township, Indiana to honor a life well-lived and a rest well-earned.