Henry Claude Rudd, 82, passed away suddenly at his home in Manteca, California on March 15, 2018.  A forty five year resident of Manteca, Claude was born in Wheeler, Texas on May 27, 1935.  His family, from Oklahoma, relocated to California when he was ten.  He graduated from San Benito County High School in 1954 where he was a standout member of the marching band and Summa Cum Laude from UC Berkeley’s School of Optometry in 1964.  He married his sweetheart and fellow San Juan Bautista, California resident, Rae Ann Rogers, in 1956 and they were married for over 57 years prior to her passing in 2013.  They were blessed with five children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. 
   Claude practiced optometry for over forty years, 33 years in Manteca.  A seasoned traveler, he enjoyed numerous trips with his wife throughout Europe and North America.  He was an avid reader, but was more likely to be found in his shop woodworking or tending his garden while whistling a joyful tune.  Able to play music by ear, he was an accomplished musician who played the trombone and guitar.  He deferred his first year of high school to care for his recuperating mother for which he was later awarded land in Southern California for his good deeds.  He also devoted over fifteen years as the primary care giver to his wife who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.  A devout Christian, he had a quick wit, friendly smile, and generous nature. 
   He is survived by daughters Robin Rudd Gonzales (Robert) of Hollister, CA and Tamara Rudd of San Jose, CA grandchildren, Scott Rudd (Taischa “Ty”), Brian Gonzales (Stephanie), Christopher Rudd, Logan Rudd, and Shae Gonzales; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 
   He was preceded in death by his wife, Rae Ann, children, Stephen Rudd, Alan Rudd, and Tiffany Rudd, sister Gladys (Rudd) Worley, and brothers Aubrey Rudd, Gordon Rudd, Billy Rudd, and Douglas (Shirley, Yerington, NV) Rudd; and parents Henry Carl and Lucy Jewel (Holland) Rudd. 
   P.L. Fry & Son is honored to be serving the Rudd family. A memorial will be held on Thursday, March 29, 2018, 1:00 p.m. at P.L. Fry & Son Chapel, 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca, CA. An online guest book is available for condolences to the family at www.plfryandson.com
    Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, Western States Affiliates, PO Box 742030, Los Angeles, CA  90074-2030. https://donatenow.heart.org/.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Saturday, March 24, 2018