Search by Name

Search by Name

Edward John and Gwen Marie Rudolph

Edward John and Gwen Marie Rudolph obituary

Edward Rudolph Obituary

Edward John and Gwen Marie Rudolph Ed and Gwen Rudolph loved life and lived it to the fullest. On Sunday, July 19th, they were tragically killed in a car accident in Wyoming. Together, Ed and Gwen brought energy, creativity and commitment to their family, their community, and the hearts of friends and family that have been left broken. Some measure of comfort comes from knowing there has been a joyful reunion in heaven with their three children Kristen, Amy and Little Eddie. Ed was born August 31, 1941 to Ed and Loretta Rudolph in Northbrook, Illinois. At age 17 he became the youngest athlete ever to qualify for a US winter Olympic team. He competed in the 1960, 1964 and 1968 Olympic games as a speed skater. In 1963 he broke the world record in the 500 -meter speed skating event at the World Championships in Japan. Ed was inducted into the speed skating Hall of Fame in 2007. A graduate of Weber State University, Ed was a successful Real Estate developer and owner of The Rudolph Company. He brought the same energy and competitive spirit to business as he had shown in sports, and many local landmarks are the result of his skill and vision. Gwen was born March 6, 1943 to Marjorie and Clarence Lillegard in Morton, Washington. Gwen began her college years at Stanford University and graduated, with Ed, from Weber State. She and Ed were married on August 30, 1967 and began a life of adventure and accomplishments. She was a talented interior designer and a master developer of exquisite gardens. She tirelessly shared the abundance from her gardens with others; their beauty, and the results of her extraordinary design talents, will be wonderful reminders of Gwen for years to come. Ed and Gwen were intimately involved in many organizations and institutions that supported the community they loved, from Penrose Hospital to Goodwill. Ed was awarded the Goodwill Foundation's Guiding Light Award and in 2006 was named a recipient of Goodwill's Colorado Springs Community Partner Award. Both Gwen and Ed enjoyed the outdoors with passion and joy. Skiing and boating with their family were tops in a long list of outdoor pursuits. Indeed, their happiest times were riding ATVs with their much loved grandchildren. Even in light of their remarkable professional and personal achievements, Ed and Gwen would wish to be remembered most for the love they shared with their family. It defined them, delighted them, made them who they were. Their lives, while tragically short, were rich with the love and laughter of those they loved, and who will love them always in return. Ed and Gwen are survived by sons Jason (wife Emilie) and Ryan (wife Rho); daughter Morgan (husband Adam); grandchildren Jake, Ben, Eddie, Max, and another on the way; brothers and sisters Don and Rita Lillegard, Tom and Sally Adkison, Gordy Rudolph and many nieces and nephews. The lives of Gwen and Ed are a model of courage and resilience. They inspire us to come back from great tragedy and not only to survive, but to thrive and take every bit of joy that life can offer. And they remind us that our time is limited, and the good times should not wait. It is a lesson that will sustain all who love them in the difficult times ahead. Services are planned for Saturday, July 25th at 10 am, at First Presbyterian Church downtown, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you send donations to: the Educational Foundation for the grandchildren of Ed and Gwen Rudolph at Bank of the Broadmoor, 155 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette from Jul. 23 to Jul. 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Edward Rudolph

Sponsored by Peter Craycroft.

Not sure what to say?





Single Memorial Tree

Peter Burr Craycroft

Planted Trees

Peter Craycroft

August 23, 2014

Gwen was a college friend whose beautiful and brilliant light lit my path through some difficult times. Though I am deeply saddened to finally find her here, I take heart in reading about the wonderful life she lived.

John Winsor

July 29, 2009

Our community has truly lost some good people in Ed and Gwen Rudolph. I was friends with Ed through my work in commercial real estate. I was fortunate, to work with Eddie years ago, on his redevelopment of South Nevada at Southgate Road, and turn it into the Southern Cross Shopping Center. I had been in the business a few years but this was my first ground up development work. I enjoyed the business and felt work should be fun but Eddie brought it to a whole different level. Eddie had a gift for taking each moment and making it better, more enjoyable. If you knew Ed, then you have many memories that make you smile.
I was always amazed by his positive attitude, his kindness and giving. He gave me my first dog, a black Lab. He took many of us boating. He entertained us at many gatherings with ridiculous tricks or gags that never seemed to work but in a nut shell that was Ed: it was not in the successful outcome of the trick, it was in the joy he gave us in the preparation or just the absolute ridiculousness of whatever he was doing.

What I will always remember about Eddie and will try to be better about, is his unwavering, upbeat and fun way he approached life. From his smiling, happy, quirky little “Hi” with the sparkle in his eyes to his never ending stories or schemes to make you laugh, I always went away from Eddie smiling. I did not do much with Ed the last 10 years and had just started to rekindle that friendship. I regret not doing something sooner and I will truly miss him and Gwen as a lot of people will. I hope that all of us that knew them can add a little bit of Ed and Gwen in our approach to life and to others. If you are wondering if a little more of an upbeat attitude, kindness or silliness really matters, you need have only been at Ed and Gwen’s funeral for the answer: I have never been at a funeral with thousands of people.
My heartfelt thanks to Ed and Gwen for reminding me of what’s important, I will miss them.

July 27, 2009

May the road rise up to meet both of you-May the wind be always at your backs-May the sun shine warm upon your faces-May the rains fall soft upon your feilds-And until we meet Again-May God hold you both in the palm of his hand. Bob O'Grady Class of 60 Glenbrook High School.

July 27, 2009

Morgan, Ryan, & Jason - Words cannot express the tragic loss of your beloved parents and the wonderful memories that we have of our Colorado Springs and Breckenridge days with all of you!! Morgan, you were Elizabeth's dearest friend and Jason and Ryan taught Chris a lot of things, too!! Ed and Gwen were the "PERFECT PARENTS" and you all were such a loving family!!! Pleae know that our hearts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time!! Morgan, please let Elizabeth know when your "Bundle of Joy" arrives. May God Bless You All. Ann & Jim Ellis & Family (North Carolina)

Neila Achter

July 25, 2009

This is such a shock. I went all through elementary and high school to with Eddie. Our families knew each other. Last time I saw him was at our last high school reunion in 2006. Those were amazing years and for all of us, but especially for Eddie. I found out about this tragedy from e-mails from old classmates. His loss is felt by us also. We remember what a wonderful personality he was, and from what I read, continued to be throughout his life.

My condolences to you, friends in their later life that stood by them in all those difficult times, and Gordy. May all the amazing memories and legacy he and your mother left sustain you all in these difficult tims.

Neila Baesman Achter

Mike Suboticki

July 25, 2009

Amazing people Gwen and Ed and having just returned from the service I now know why they were so proud of their children.
Ryan, Jason and Morgan,you showed such poise and strength ,you should be so proud of yourselves.
I will miss Ed for the rest of my life and only hope that I will have a small portion of the heartfelt love and admiration from family and friends.
Some people have a great life and some people help make others life great---that was Ed and Gwen Rudolph.

Carrie Reese - Hobbs

July 25, 2009

Morgan, Jason & Ryan -

My heartfelt thoughts on this difficult day and the many days ahead. What a beautiful life your parents lived - with a kindness, love of life and enthusiasm for every moment. I will be forever grateful for the time I worked with your mom and the gift of her friendship and caring heart.

With Love -

Douglas Young

July 24, 2009

"Jason, Ryan and Morgan, it has been several years since I have seen your parents but they were always very special friends to me. It is with deep sadness when I received the tragic news of your parents. My prayers are with you and your children. Our blessings and prayers, the Young Family, Doug, Chris, Corey, and Ryan
Doug Young, Father of Christopher, Corey and Ryan.(Telluride, CO.)

Brian Murphy

July 24, 2009

One fond memory I will always have of Ed is when he, my uncle Ed, and my Dad all went fishing in Coasta Rica. What a great time and fun memory. I wish all his family love and prayers at this most difficult time.

Karen Clothier Zirzow

July 24, 2009

Ryan, Jason, and Morgan,
I am so stunned and saddened by your loss. It's been several years snce I've seen your parents, but I will treasure the memories I have of the times we spent together. They were both wonderful people and will be missed in so many ways. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Dan and Janice Meyer

July 23, 2009

Jason, Ryan, Morgan and families, We feel so lucky to have had Ed and Gwen as our friends. The love and kindness that they shared touched all of our lives and their memory will live with us forever. They talked of you so often and were so proud of you. We send you our love and sympathy and will keep you in our prayers always, Dan, Janice, Troy and Gary Meyer

Maureen Murphy

July 23, 2009

To the family and friends of the Rudolphs,

I can not remember a time when The Rudolphs weren't present at our family functions or celebrations. They weren't just friends of The Murphys. They were part our family!

I saw Gwen recently when she had her car filled to the brim with flowers and plants. She was laughing and excited about giving them to people she knew in town. She was "on the run" to her next project, but took the time to get an update on my life. Her generosity of heart and spirit was a gift she gave freely. Gwen was not only a talented gardener, but a gourmet cook. Oh, how I looked forward to sampling her latest creations, especially during the holidays when she would deliver a basket of goodies to my parents. As an interior designer, Gwen reigned supreme! She knew I was incapable of setting up my new home after my divorce. In her quiet, but strong way, Gwen met with me once, to get a set of keys to my house and to discuss possible ideas. A few weeks later, the pictures were hung, curtains were made, duvets were sewn and an oasis was born! She was kind, funny, creative and loving. She will truly be missed!

Ed had a giggle that was contagious! He was generous with his big, bear hugs and like, Gwen, always interested in making sure others were happy. He would light up a room with his gorgeous smile and his stories were full of shenanigans! He was a true treasure!

Ed and Gwen absolutely loved their children, grandchildren and friends! They touched the lives of all they met. Ed and Gwen will be truly missed, but they will never be forgotten!

With love,
Maureen

Leslie & Art Wilkonson

July 23, 2009

Jason, Ryan and Morgan your parents were bigger than life!! I will miss them very much.

Jaimie Martindale

July 23, 2009

I will always have fond memories of spending time with the Rudolph family. Not only did they make every visit a joy but they always made me feel right at home..like part of the family. They will be missed by so many and will leave a lasting impression on us all. I feel very blessed and privileged to have known them. Words cannot express my sadness for your loss. Please know we love you, we are here for you, and we are praying for you.

Engle Family

July 23, 2009

How we will miss the smiles and kindnesses of Ed and Gwen! Their grace and interest in others will live in our hearts! Peace be with you.

Glen Stamwitz

July 23, 2009

I am so stunned and saddened by your loss. Gwen was my cousin, her mom and my dad were siblings. My prayers, thoughts and sympathy go out to you all. They were an extrordinary couple.

Alan Stamwitz

July 23, 2009

I have known of cousin Gwen and her husband Ed all my life and regretfully can not remember ever meeting them. My heart goes out to their families in this most tragic time in their lives. I always figured one day I would meet them and enjoy their company, but now I can only wonder what it would have been like. Their lives have blessed many people and now even those they have never met. My prayers and best wishes are with their children and families.
Alan Stamwitz

Paige Wright

July 23, 2009

Ryan, Jason, and Morgan you were given a gift. Your parents were amazing! Not everyone was blessed with unconditional love from their families. The few times I met them left a huge impact on me. Relish in that gift and their love for everyone. We love and miss you all!
Paige, Brad and Macy Aglrim (Wright).

Holly (Hand) Sillasen

July 23, 2009

If there is such a thing as a beautiful obituary, this is it. What a perfect tribute to such wonderful people. Please know you are all in my heart through this tragic loss. I wish you strength, love and peace to get through this hard time, and all the joys and challenges still to come.

Melanie Goodbar

July 23, 2009

I am so very sorry for your loss. I know there isn't much to help comfort you at this time but please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Chuck and Carole Miller

July 23, 2009

Sometimes there are just no words to say the things that are deepest in our hearts.... when there are no words...know that the silences are carrying the thoughts and prayers of all who love you. Wishing you strength and peace in this sudden loss.

Mary Masters

July 23, 2009

Gwen and Ed will be sadly missed. Ryan, Rho, and little Max will have wonderful memories forever. Ray and I are honored to have known them and to have their son join our family. He is the best thing that has happened to us in a very long time. I pray that Ryan and Rho can have the same type of relation that Ed and Gwen had--they will forevery be happy. God Bless

Showing 1 - 23 of 23 results

Make a Donation
in Edward Rudolph's name

Memorial Events
for Edward Rudolph

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Edward's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Edward Rudolph's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more