Annette Cecelia Rud

1943 - 2025

Annette Cecelia Rud

August 19, 1943 - August 8, 2025

Annette Cecelia Rud, affectionately known as "Nettie," passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, just days shy of her 82nd birthday.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 29, 2025, at St. Pius Catholic Church, 202 North 3rd Street, New Salem, ND, with burial at St. Pius Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM with a Rosary/Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 PM, Thursday, August 28, 2025, at St. Pius Catholic Church, New Salem, and will continue one hour before the service.

Nettie was born on August 19, 1943, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Anton and Celia Goetzfried, and was one of four beloved children in her family. Nettie's life journey took her from Minneapolis to Dickinson and eventually to the community of New Salem, where she would spend most of her life and left an indelible mark. Nettie met her future husband, Curtis Rud, in high school, and their enduring bond culminated in marriage on October 29, 1966, following his return from service in Germany. Together, they welcomed three sons into their lives: JayDee, Brent, and Scott, who became her pride and joy. After marrying Curtis, the couple moved to Minneapolis, later returning to New Salem to take on the family tradition as the third-generation owner/operator of Rud Oil. There, Nettie devoted herself to the business until her retirement, showcasing her relentless work ethic and strong sense of responsibility. She is most proud to know that now her sons are fourth-generation owner/operators. The company was started by three men, and is now being led by three men, with the fifth generation up and coming.

Nettie embodied a passion for education and nurtured young minds after earning her teaching certificate. Her warmth and dedication were evident as she taught in country schools, fostering a love for learning in her students. A testament to her lifelong commitment to education, Nettie returned to the University of Mary to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Education later on in life, exemplifying her belief in lifelong learning and the importance of nurturing. In June 1992, Nettie's life took a profound turn when she became a young widow. Undeterred by the challenges of single parenthood, she raised her three sons with grace and resilience. Her love for her family was boundless; she was their guiding light and fiercest supporter, never missing a school event or activity. One of her greatest joys came from being a grandmother to eleven grandchildren, affectionately known as Gramma Nettie-each cherished moment spent with them fueled her soul. You could always find her present at all of their activities and events. Nettie's heart extended beyond her home, embracing her community through active involvement in the Lions Club and as the leader of the music program at her church. Her love for flower gardening and her spirited role as a member of the Red Hatters and Centennial Singers reflected her vibrant personality.

Nettie's legacy of love, strength, and compassion will forever be cherished by her surviving sons: JayDee, (Billie) and their children: Jackson, Ethan, and Noah; Brent (Christina) and their children: Alyssa, Derrick, Cienna, and Brekka; and Scott (Michelle) and their children: Dreyton, Dylan, Dallas, and Bristol; and brother, Daryl Goetzfried "Frazee."

Nettie was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Celia; husband, Curtis; brothers, Anthony and Richard; sister-in-law, Barbara; brother-in-law, Sheldon; and in-laws, Henry and Louise. Annette Rud will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire us all.

To share memories of Nettie and sign the online guest book, go to www.eastgatefuneral.com.