Franklin A. Rudolph, 80, of Belleville, IL, born November 6, 1945, in Fort Dodge, IA, died Friday, June 19, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO.
Frank passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and devotion to his family. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence touched the lives of many. Franklin proudly served his country for 27 years in the United States Air Force, dedicating much of his life to protecting others. During his distinguished military career, he served in Vietnam as an AC-119K Gunship Pilot, a role that reflected his courage, commitment, and unwavering sense of duty. His service was a source of great pride, and he carried the values of honor, integrity, and perseverance throughout his life.
Above all, Franklin loved God fiercely. His faith guided him, strengthened him, and shaped the way he loved and cared for those around him. He was a man who believed in family, his brothers and sisters in Christ at Zion Lutheran Church, kindness, and living life with purpose.
Franklin was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathy. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. Their years together were filled with countless memories, including many travels that allowed them to explore the world side by side and create stories they would cherish forever. A lifelong baseball fan, Franklin had a special love for the St. Louis Cardinals and the game itself. He enjoyed the excitement, tradition, and memories that baseball brought, but nothing compared to the joy he found watching his children and grandchildren. Whether cheering from the stands or sharing in their accomplishments, Franklin was their biggest supporter and took immense pride in seeing them grow.
He will be remembered as a loving family man, a faithful servant, a proud veteran, and a friend who brought warmth and wisdom to those fortunate enough to know him. His stories, his laughter, his faith, and his love will continue to live on through the generations he inspired. A life well lived. A love well shared. A legacy that will endure.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Marcella, nee Abel, Rudolph; his father-in-law, George Skiera; and mother-in-law, Nancy Skiera.
Surviving are his loving wife of 45 years, Kathy Rudolph, nee Skiera; his daughters, Tammy (Carter) Rudolph-Hollenbeck, Wendy (Jonathan) Lyon, and Laura (Nicholas) Rudolph-Kreiter; eight grandchildren, Trevor (Suzi) Sanchez, Josie Sanchez, Mary Lyon, Abigial Hollenbeck, Lucas Hollenbeck, Cameron Kreiter, Logan Rudolph, and Dominic Kreiter; three siblings, Donna (Gordon) Merseth, Debra (Scott) Edwards, and John (Susan) Rudolph; a sister-in-law, Maureen (Jim) Sexton; a brother-in-law, Michael (Ann) Skiera; and many dear nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Scholarship Program or the Zion Lutheran Sanctuary Remodel. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Chris Spelbring officiating.
Burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
