Rudolph Anderson

Rudolph "Rudy" John Andersen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully of natural causes on October 2, 2025, at the age of 79.
Rudy was born in Duluth, Minnesota, on December 5, 1945, to John and Helaine Andersen. After graduating from high school, he served six years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Berchtesgaden, Germany. It was there that he met the love of his life, Jacqueline "Jackie" Gionet, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. The two were married in Salzburg, Austria, in 1968, before returning to Duluth to begin their life together.
In Duluth, Rudy worked as a welder in the shipyards while he and Jackie started their young family. Later, he earned his real estate license and began selling homes before deciding to further his education. He attended the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education-a reflection of his lifelong creativity and curiosity. Rudy went on to build a successful career as a real estate appraiser, combining his practical skills with his eye for detail and craftsmanship.
Rudy also proudly served in the Air National Guard for 20 years, where he developed his communication skills as a media specialist.
A man of many interests, Rudy loved hunting, fishing, art, travel, his family, and adventure. A natural father, he raised his children, Tracy and Eric, to be kind, creative, and hardworking. Rudy created a loving and supportive environment that allowed his children to be true to themselves, take healthy risks, and thrive. He was a talented builder and craftsman, adding several impressive expansions to his family's home in Duluth-including a two-story, three-car garage built with his own hands. Rudy's playful spirit and boundless imagination made every day an adventure. Children were naturally drawn to him-neighbors fondly recall how kids would gather around whenever "Rudy" was outside, eager to join in on whatever he was doing.
In retirement, Rudy and Jackie divided their time between their home in Spring Hill, Florida, and their RV in Cloquet, Minnesota. They filled their golden years with the things they loved most: golfing, fishing, boating, playing cards, and sharing laughter and stories with the many dear friends they made along the way.
Rudy had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. He had an open heart, a sharp wit, and a sense of fun that made everyone feel welcome. He created community wherever he went-among neighbors, family, and friends alike.
Rudy is survived by his devoted wife, Jacqueline Andersen; his daughter, Tracy Cloninger; his son, Eric Andersen; his grandchildren, Bergen and Thor Cloninger, and Phoenix and Emersyn Andersen; and his brother, Dale Andersen.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Minnesota Veterans' Assistance Council (https://secure.givelively.org/donate/minnesota-assistance-council-for-veterans) in Rudy's memory.
Minnesota Memorial:
Date- TBD- Spring or summer 2026
Where- Sunrise Memorial Park in Hermantown, MN. 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy. Hermantown, MN. 55811 and reception to follow at Ecumen Lakeshore Community 4002 London Rd. Duluth, MN 55804.
Please fill out this form to receive updated and detailed information about Rudy's Celebration of Life in Duluth. (https://tinyurl.com/RudiMemorial)
Rudy will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and zest for life.
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Submitted by the Andersen family
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