Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Rudd Obituary
December 18, 1945 - October 31, 2020
San Luis Obispo, California - Robert Michael Rudd, "Mike" was born on December 18th, 1945 in Texas. He was raised in San Luis Obispo and graduated San Luis Obispo High school class of 64'. He loved working on cars in his auto class and driving fast down Laurel Lane. His high school friends say he loved going to the Friday night dances and driving around town.
After High school he joined the National Guard and then worked in construction eventually becoming and retiring as an IBEW Journeyman Electrician.
He married Hollaye VanKieth in 1969. They had two sons, Jefferson and Benjamin. He was an adventurous and supportive father. He would take them Camping, fishing and on road trips to Baja, Mexico with family friends.
Mike was remarried in 1987 to Linda Avila and they lived together in Avila Beach. He built his beach businesses during that time and eventually the famous "Mikes Yum Yum shop" and the "Sea Barn" were born. Mike, Linda and store manager Shelly sold countless bathing suits, sunglasses and rented boogie boards and wetsuits.
Mike was always tinkering and building things as well as inventing practical solutions to improve his "systems". He was known for having a MacGyver-like ingenuity, could fix just about anything and had every possible tool to do so. He loved listening to Willie Nelson, open spaces and driving on country roads with his dog Bungie.
Mike leaves behind his wife Linda Rudd, son Jefferson Rudd, daughter in law Meka Rudd, Grandchildren Belle and Ben, brother Charlie Rudd and his wife Sydney. He also has many friends from his San Luis Obispo High School class of 1964 and his friends from Avila Beach.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rudd
Ted Ashlock
January 8, 2022
I missed this notification earlier. I was one of the young adults who worked at the Yum-Yum Shop and hung out at the Sea Barn decades ago. Mike was a great guy and mentor. He was fun. Deepest condolences to Linda and family.
Teri Federer
November 20, 2021
He was one of the Avila guys that had been around for a very long time. How I miss all the locals. Rest In Peace my friend. You will be missed.
Natalie Read (McTucker)
November 4, 2021
I loved living in Avila & would go downtown & met Robert after he met Linda. Robert will always a part of Avila & will be missed. I remember when the Sea Barn opened it was very exciting. Linda & Family, so sorry for your loss.
Doris Watkins
October 31, 2021
Mike was a good spirit and soul in our class of 64. My mother, Suzie passed away in 2011. We had a estate sale that a company set up and ran. Some time after, Mike contacted Wes and I. He had gone to the estate sale and saw my SLO High School annual there. He purchased and and made a effort to get it to me. We had some good visits. What a dear Man. The annual has special meaning as Wes, my husband of 53 year and class of 62 had signed in it. Thank you Dear Mike. Always caring for others RIP
Wes and Doris Watkins, San Francisco
Jim Horn
October 29, 2021
Condolences to The Rudd family. Mike was a classmate `64. Always a gentleman, I enjoyed our conversations over the years whenever I came to the area. Could always find him at the Avila shop or at home doing something. A classy guy, I never heard him say a bad thing about anyone. I´ll miss my friend.
Claire Vollmer
October 29, 2021
So, so sad to hear of Mike's passing. He was one of my high school crushes who later became a wonderful friend. Such a great guy! I last saw him at a Golden Grads luncheon...still a hunk!! Love and miss you Mike. My condolences to the family.
paul a sweeney sr
October 28, 2021
Rest in Peace Beach buddy !!
Deborah Coy
October 28, 2021
Mike was a great support to my sister Cheri. Sorry for your loss
Nancy Howland
October 24, 2021
My condolences to the family.
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Rudd's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Rudd
Funeral services provided by:
Reis Family Mortuary and Crematory - San Luis Obispo991 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
How to support Robert'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
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 moreResources 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
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 moreWays to honor Robert Rudd's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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
