James (Jim) Rudy

James (Jim) Michael Rudy, age 72, of Lone Tree, Colorado, went to be with the Lord on September 12, 2020. He was born on November 2, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, but lived the majority of his life in Colorado. He was the oldest of seven children. As a young boy, Jim served as one of the city's most dependable paperboys, earning him a trip to the Vatican City to receive an award from Pope Paul VI. Jim graduated from George Washington High School and went on to earn a degree in engineering from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO. His college roommate introduced him to the love of his life. On December 26, 1970 Jim married Kathryn Joan Carroll.

Driven by patriotism and a love for his country, Jim joined the U.S. Army National Guard and was a U.S. Army reservist. He successfully completed Green Beret advanced training and was honorably discharged in 1976. With a passion for the Rocky Mountain slopes, Jim was an accomplished ski instructor at Arapahoe Basin. Jim took his engineering skills to the private sector where he began what would become a 25-year career with Mountain Bell/US West Communications. At age 50, Jim retired and focused his time on his children and their athletic endeavors. When he wasn't in the bleachers of an athletic event, Jim enjoyed golfing and fishing. Jim was an avid Bronco fan, passing his highly coveted season tickets and accompanying tailgating traditions on to his children. He was also a fierce poker player. He loved playing cards with his friends and family. Jim's children will always remember the Christmas Eve family tradition of a competitive card game together after attending midnight mass.

One of the things Jim cherished most was spending time with others. A volunteer for nearly 10 years, Jim and his certified comfort dog,"Gipper" would spread cheer and companionship to patients at Littleton Hospital.

Jim was smart, funny, and generous. He was passionate about his church, his community, and his country. He had a life-long love affair with golden retrievers, Fox News, and spicy food. No one would dare challenge him to a round of Trivial Pursuit, Jeopardy or Cash Cab. He would crush you. Next to his love for God was his love for his children and grandchildren.

Jim defied all odds after surviving for several years from numerous health ailments. To say he was a fighter would be an understatement. Jim is survived by his children, Brian and Samantha Rudy of Greeley, CO; Christopher Rudy of Greenwood Village, CO; and Jeffrey and Jennifer Bannon of Simi Valley, CA; his four grandchildren, Fletcher Bannon and Reagan Bannon of Simi Valley, CA, and James Rudy and Landon Rudy of Greeley, CO. He is preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn Joan Rudy, and two children, Mary Kathryn Rudy and Eric Thomas Rudy.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2020 from 5:00 - 7:00pm at Horan and McConaty Mortuary, 5303 E. County Line Road, Centennial. CO.  A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 28, 2020 at 11:00 am at St. Thomas More, 8035 S. Quebec Street, Englewood, CO. Jim will be laid to rest at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Wreaths Across America ( wreathsacrossamerica.org ) to honor those that served.