Gary was born August 19, 1952 in Grafton, ND the son of the late Walter and Loretta (Simonson) Rud. He grew up and attended school in Stephen, graduating in 1970. He attended school at Thief River Technical College and Moorhead State College for a time. He married Becky Merdink on May 28 1971 in Stephen. The couple made their home in Grafton where Gary was working for Pro-Ag. Becky passed away on August 1, 1987. Gary was united in marriage to Nancy Skjerven on July 27, 1991 in Grafton where they made their home. Nancy passed away on March 13, 2016. Gary retired from Pro-Ag in 2015 after 45 years of service.
Gary was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church. He enjoyed having coffee with the guys, Wednesday lunches, coffee at Nash Elevator and for the last several years helping at the Tollefson Funeral Home. He enjoyed his morning walks and spending time with his family.
Gary is survived by his children: Paula (Jon) Bradbury, Grand Forks, ND; Shari (David) Boyd, Centerville, MN; Brent (Rebecca) Rud, Bemidji, MN and Dana (Traviss) Viken, Winnipeg, MB Canada; his grandchildren: PJ, Nate, Noah and Becca Bradbury, Joey and Josh Boyd, Matthew and Luke Rud and Joran, Tait and Bjorn Viken; his brother, Ray (Linda) Rud, Grafton, ND along with several nieces, nephews, sister and brother-in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, wives, brother and sister-in-law, Dwaine and Sandra Rud and nephew, David.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 10:30 AM at the Grafton Lutheran Church of Grafton, ND. Visitation will be Monday from 5-7 PM at the Tollefson Funeral Home and Tuesday for one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery,