James Rude

James M. Rude of Millington, Michigan passed away on Wednesday January 15, 2020. He was 86.

James was born on December 29, 1933 to the late George and Jenny Rude. James was married to Barbara Rude who passed away in 2015. Together they had four children.

Jim was born in Flint, Michigan, and moved to Columbiaville when he was in the third grade.  He grew up on the farm there where he developed a love for all of the animals.  After graduating from high school, he served two years in the army.  He met and married Barbara Berridge, and they began their life together in 1958.  They moved to Millington one year later, joined St. Paul Lutheran Church, and raised their four children.  Jim and Barb worshipped and served at St. Paul the rest of their lives.  Jim was active at church ushering, decorating for Christmas, and serving in many ways.  Jim worked at Fisher Body in Grand Blanc as a toolmaker, and he retired from that position after 30 plus years.  Jim was very good at fixing and building things, paying very close attention to detail.  He was always willing to help others.  He liked cars, motorcycles, tractors, and farm machinery and enjoyed working on them.

Jim enjoyed nothing more than being home spending time with his family.  He enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren camping, swimming, riding motorcycles and quads, and playing euchre.  Jim enjoyed the annual Rude Reunion camping trip where he talked and laughed with his extended family. He made friends very easily, and no one was a stranger to him.  Jim was a man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and was never in a hurry.  He always had time for everyone.

Many people have described Jim as the nicest man they have ever known.  He was truly a man of exemplary character who lived his faith and was a godly example to all. He loved God and his family and always put them first.   He will truly be missed and never forgotten.

James is forever loved by; four children: Daniel (Kathy) Rude, Diane (James) MacKay, Lisa Bach, and Mark (Julie) Rude. He leaves nine grandchildren: Jennifer (Josh) Galbreath, Ashley Rude, Kelsi McAlister, Conner MacKay, Madeline, Aidan, and Emmett Bach, Brandon and Tyler Rude. One great-granddaughter; Savanna Rivard. One brother-in-law; Robert Buckner and one sister-in-law; Georgia Stadler. As well as several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Besides his parents James is preceded in death by wife Barbara, two brothers Owen, and Glen, and one sister Edna.

The family would like to invite friends and family to Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington, Mi on Sunday, January 19, 2020 for a time of visitation and sharing from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. The funeral service will be held on Monday, January 20, 2020 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Millington, Mi beginning at 1:00pm with a time of visiting before the funeral at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers you can make a memorial contribution to St. Paul Lutheran Church. You're welcome to express condolences, share a memory, or light a candle by selecting the Tribute Wall tab.

Hanlin Funeral Home

Serving Since 1928