Rudy J. Videtich's Obituary
Rudy J. Videtich, age 98, met his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. He was born on June 23, 1924, to Anton and Frances (Bluth) Videtich near Pines Point, Hesperia, MI. Growing up on a farm near Hesperia, there were many chores to do and pickles to pick, but in his spare time, he enjoyed boxing and playing baseball with his brothers. Rudy went on to become a proud veteran, serving his country in the U.S. Army during WWII where he worked as a surgical technician in France. After the war was over, he continued to serve in the “Army of Occupation” in Germany. Rudy worked 37 years at General Telephone and Electronics (GTE), working above and below ground as a cable splicer before retiring in 1986. On May 7, 1949, he married the love of his life, Ellen Bayle at St. Michael Catholic Church in Brunswick. Together they had 73 years full of love, laughter and endless memories. Rudy was a faithful servant and longtime communicate of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed spending his time hunting, fishing and spending time with his family at “The East Place,” the family property up north. Rudy took pride in his yard and enjoyed growing tomatoes and lettuce. He loved rooting for his Detroit Tigers, Chevys, and dancing polkas. Above all things, Rudy cherished his family. He will always be remembered as a proud Slovenian American with a gentle and kind heart. Rudy will be truly missed by many. He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Videtich; five children, Wayne Videtich, Greg (Ann) Videtich, Patricia Videtich, Paul Videtich and Jeff Videtich; seven grandchildren, Rita (Keith) Messing, Teresa (Tim McCurdy) Young, Ryan (Annoesjka Soler) Videtich, Chad (Jessica) Videtich, John (Laura) Videtich, Ben (Kaile) Videtich and Phil (Kayla) Videtich; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Patelski; and sister-in-law, Kathleen Videtich. He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Tony, Ralph, Frank, Victor, Leo and Louis; six sisters, Frances, Mary, Anne, Matilda, Rose and Helen; three special dogs, Chip, Lady and Missy; and a special cat, Simon. A Visitation with the family will be held from 4-6:00 PM on Monday, April 24, 2023, at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. A Private Graveside Service will be held with Military Rites. The family wishes to thank the staff and residents at Hallstrom Castle Assisted Living in Twin Lake for the love and care they have shown Rudy this past year. Also, we would like to thank Harbor Hospice for the specialized care that Rudy received the last two months of his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Rudy’s honor can be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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