Homer Edward Rudy

Homer Edward Rudy, 64, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, Nov. 1, 2025, at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center, with his mother and sister by his side.

He was born on Sept. 25, 1961 in Huntington, Indiana, to Patricia (Harney) Sweinhagen.

Ed was a 1980 graduate of Tinora High School and Four County Career Center with a focus on diesel mechanics. In the late 80s early 90s he began working at Defiance Stamping and American Eagle Express as a mechanic and driver. In 1999 Ed formed H. E. Rudy Trucking which he has owned and operated for the last 26 years. His passion for the transportation industry and his "team" was never ending. Along with his passion for trucking, he was also a huge car and truck enthusiast with Barrett Jackson being his favorite.

He is survived by his mother, Patricia Sweinhagen; stepfather, Karl Sweinhagen of Defiance; son, Benjamin Rudy of Defiance; brother, William Rudy Jr. of North Manchester, Indiana; side kick and lil sis, Nicki (Jason) Frederick of Defiance; nieces, Keisha Markins and Kalee (Jarred Penrod) Sweinhagen; great-nieces, Taytum Markins, Ava Sweinhagen and Lainey Kiessling all of Defiance; and many cousins. He is also survived by many longtime best friends that helped make his last weeks with us just a little bit easier.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Michelle Crago and paternal and maternal grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, from noon-2 p.m. at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel, 1753 S. Clinton St. in Defiance. A Memorial Service will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Lonnie Musgrave officiating.

A special thank you to CHP Home Hospice and their nurses for helping to keep Ed home as long as possible, and a special thank you to the CHP Inpatient nurses for keeping him comfortable in his last moments with us. Your compassion goes above and beyond.

Memorial gifts can be directed to CHP Defiance Area Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.