Galen B. Rudiger, 96, of Hesston passed away Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at NMC Health in Newton. He was born Sept. 20, 1926, in rural Galva, the son of Frank A. and Lena (Unruh) Rudiger of rural Moundridge
Galen was united in marriage to Fern Schmidt on July 15, 1947, at Tabor Mennonite Church. She preceded him in death on Dec. 13, 2012.
He is survived by his children, Steven (Paula) Rudiger of North Newton, David (Christi) Rudiger of Wichita, Iris (Fred) Martin of Elizabethtown, Pa., Gwen (John) Horn of Newton, Gayle (Jim) Kristek of Shell Knob, Mo., and Faye (Tony) Scofield of Abilene; daughter-in-law, Wanda Rudiger of Chino Valley, Ariz.; 19 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and close friend, Joan Kilgore of Newton.
Galen was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Roger Rudiger; infant grandson, Johnathan Rudiger; and five sisters, Pauline Smith, Frances Nikel, Doris Decker, Susie Decker and Irene Ratzlaff.
Galen was committed to his faith and family. He enjoyed seeking out anyone who would engage in discussion about his life views. He loved inventing and persued perfection in his work.
A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at Faith Mennonite Church, Newton. A private family inurnment will take place at Tabor Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Mennoscah in care of Miller-Ott Funeral Home, P.O. Box 96, Goessel, KS, 67053.
