Obituary of Wayne Leslie Rudd
Wayne Leslie Rudd
(May 22, 1947 - October 23, 2023)
Wayne Leslie Rudd of Calgary, Alberta, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023, at age 76, with family by his side. He is survived by his brother Dale Rudd; sister Vivian Sinclair (Patrick Green); stepchildren Robert Simpson, Dominic Simpson, and Cuyler (Abby) Simpson; five step-grandchildren; and numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his wife, Kathy, and his parents, Lloyd and Minnie (Mathison) Rudd.
Wayne was born in Camrose, Alberta, on May 22, 1947. He spent most of his working life in Calgary, with the City of Calgary Parks Department. In a former life, he played bass guitar in two separate bands that performed throughout Alberta. He continued to play music with friends and family at every opportunity throughout his life. He loved music of all kinds and was known for having an eclectic record collection that included every genre: classical, pop, rock, folk, bluegrass, big band—you name it, Wayne had it. Music was an integral part of his infamous parties, which he hosted often. His annual Halloween and Christmas parties were legendary.
Wayne was an avid hiker (he trekked almost every trail in the Rockies) and photographer. Along with his passion for music and nature, he loved motorcycles. He had several old bikes restored, including a 1932 BSA that had been a family heirloom. He loved the art and culture of the Old West and accumulated an amazing collection of books, paintings and memorabilia. Family history was important to him, and he spent many an hour poring through—and sharing—history and photographs.
His biggest love of all was his wife, Kathy. Their wedding day in 1997 was the happiest day of his life. Wayne and Kathy were true soulmates, and their trips to her hometown in Nebraska gave him an opportunity to see many of the historical sites he had read about. He enjoyed being a stepdad/grandpa and was known to one of his step-grandchildren as Grandpa Whiskers. He has held Kathy in his heart since her untimely passing in 2001.
Wayne’s many friends came from all walks of life. He was known by all as a kind, fun-loving, generous person whose heart and door were open to all. He will be sorely missed.
A celebration of life for Wayne will be held at a later date, at which time friends and family will be invited to share memories, music and photos.
