Vern Rudolph, Sr., 72, affectionately known as "Rudy", a resident of New Bedford for over 40 years, went home to the Lord after losing his battle to cancer on Sunday July 21, 2019.
Vern is survived by the loves of his life; his loving companion, Manuela "Nela" DeMelo; his children, Vern Rudolph, Jr., Brian Eric Rudolph, Sean Allen Rudolph, Neika Rozanne Rudolph, Verna Mae Rudolph, Sharik Ali Rudolph, Kevin John Rudolph, Naomi Louise Rudolph, Lee Ann Marie Rudolph, Keith J. Rudolph, Ashly A. Rudolph, Justin A. Rudolph; his wife Anna Rudolph, his sister Emma Rudolph-Linares; 30 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and friends too numerous to count in New Bedford as well as Detroit, Michigan.
Vern was born December 28, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Naomi Helen Marie and John Henry Rudolph. After graduating from Northeastern High School in Detroit in 1963, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served honorably for three years as a Medic. He studied Psychology at Southeastern Massachusetts University and attended Bristol Community College in Fall River where he received his Associate's Degree.
Vern worked most of his life until his health began to fail him. During his life, he was concerned about the politics of the world and was compassionate to and about his family and friends, who will miss him dearly. Some of his familiar expressions were: "Know your politics", "Give me my dues and propers", and "Yeah Buddy."
His visitation will be held on Sunday July 28, 2019 from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. His Homegoing Service will be held on Monday July 29, 2019 at 10 AM at the United House of Prayer for All People, 419 Kempton St., New Bedford. Burial with military honors will follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne at 12:45 PM. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.