James Rudkins

October 30, 1928 - April 14, 2014

James H. “Jimmy” Rudkins was born October 30, 1928 in his home south of Hobart to Ed and Dora Rudkins, the youngest of six children. He attended Union School through 8th grade and graduated from Hobart High School in 1946. He married Laura Robles in 1960 at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Hobart. From this union, nine children were born. Jimmy and Laura were married 54 years on March 14, 2014. A standout athlete, he passed his love of education and athletics on to his children and grandchildren. Jimmy was one of many who built the Saints Peter and Paul building. He also promoted the spiritual life of his children, grandchildren, and others. He was nourished by the Body of Christ, the Bread of Life, trusting in the saving power of Christ’s Holy Eucharist. Jimmy got his work ethic and love of farming from his parents. After his father died and his older brother enlisted in World War II, Jimmy was left to run the farm along with his mother and sister at age 14. After he married and as his family grew, he successfully expanded into a turkey operation, but was forced to abandon it when the turkey processing facility closed. In 1976 he opened a dairy and ran it successfully for many years. He was a leader in Oklahoma Farm Bureau for many years and was named “Farmer of the Year” in 1978. He and his family were named “Farm Family of the Year” in 1979. Jimmy and his family were featured in various farm newsletters, journals, and once on television for his unique approach to farming and family. Jimmy was well known for his laughter, jokes, and sense of humor. His interest in fair and honest government inspired him to run for public office. He died April 14, 2014 at Elkview General Hospital in Hobart. He is survived by his wife, Laura, of the home, Bruce and Alice Newman, Roosevelt; Mary Barnes, Hobart; Matt and Debbie Norman, Hobart; Jim and Beth McBride, Lone Wolf; Keith and Jane Privett, Altus; James and Amy Rudkins, Hobart; Paul and Margaret Hollister, Hobart; Paul and Teresa Jackson, Warner, NH; Thomas Rudkins, Camarillo, CA; 38 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial is at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church on April 21, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. Burial is at Resurrection Cemetery, Hobart.