William Curtis Rudd, lovingly known as Bill, passed away peacefully at age 87 after a courageous battle with a severe infection. He was born on March 18, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to William Henry Rudd and Helen Ruth (née Curtiss).

On February 20, 1960, Bill married the love of his life, Dorene (née Wadman), beginning a partnership that spanned more than six decades and was proudly described by Bill as “Navy Strong.” Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, laughter, and deep devotion to one another.

Bill graduated from Hirsch High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University. He enjoyed a successful career in information technology and later retired as a technical recruiter with Exacta Corporation, where he was known for his warmth, professionalism, and ability to connect with people.

A faithful servant to his church, Bill was a pastoral assistant and choir member at Ascension Lutheran Church in Waukesha. He had a big personality and a gift for making any gathering better simply by being there. He loved dogs, golf, football, running, and good food, and especially cherished vacations with Dorene to Door County and Sunrise Lodge in Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin.

Above all else, Bill was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Dorene; three children: Christine (Barry) Holloway and their children, Barry (Becky) Holloway and Kelly (Kenny) Champagne, William (Patricia) Rudd and their children William Rudd and Jennifer Rudd, and Scott (Nancy) Rudd and their children Alyssa (Sergio) Quevedo, Bradley Rudd, and Abigail Rudd; two great-grandchildren: Harrison and Miriam Holloway; brother Thomas (Beverly) Rudd.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Virginia Rudd, and his honorary granddaughter, Laura Westbrook.

Bill was deeply proud of his service as an aviation electrician in the United States Navy, a commitment that shaped his character and values throughout his life.

Visitation will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 2881 Division Rd., Jackson, WI on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. with a funeral service to follow. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

The family would like to thank all the kind staff members at Heritage Lake Country Senior Living, particularly Laquonda (and her “little guy”) and Arianna, as well as the wonderful Brighton Hospice team for their care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bill’s honor may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Fund or the Humane Animal Welfare Society (H.A.W.S).