Rudy Henry Howald

October 2, 1927 - March 11, 2021 Woodland, CA

Rudy Howald was born to Ernest and Emma Howald in Woodland, CA. Ernest and Emma immigrated from Switzerland on February 14, 1921. He was the youngest of four children. Rudy had a strong work ethic and was a true American farmer all his life. He passed away at home, due to natural causes at the age of 93. He will be remembered and missed by many. Rudy attended Laugenour Elementary School in Woodland, and graduated from Woodland High School in 1946. He remained friends with many of his classmates throughout his life. Rudy was introduced to his wife, Fay (Eastman) at a Sutter Basin dinner-dance by friends. From that time, they dated and were married August 23, 1952. They were married 59 years, until Fay’s passing June 2, 2011. Rudy’s life and many of his social activities revolved around farming. One of Rudy’s highlights outside of farming was the cabin he helped build with his parents at Lake Tahoe. The cabin was finished in 1947 and continued to be his vacation home all his life. In their younger years, Rudy and Fay enjoyed many years at the cabin entertaining family and friends. They also enjoyed travels to Mexico, Switzerland, and Alaska. They were fortunate to have a large circle of friends throughout the Woodland area. Rudy was a member of the Sutter Basin Growers Coop, the Woodland Elks Club, and was active in the local Christmas Toys for Tots program. He was also a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, where he attended as a young man, and he and his wife Fay were married. Rudy was preceded in death by his wife, Fay Eileen (Eastman) Howald; his parents, Ernest and Emma Howald; and his older siblings, Leni (Howald) Maas, and Hans Howald who died during WWII. Rudy is survived by his sister, Ruth (Howald) Jelden; his four children, Heidi Howald, Frank (Donna) Howald, Brad (Michele) Howald, Craig (Sheri) Howald;eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. A private family interment will be held at Woodland Cemetery. Due to current Covid-19 events, a life celebration is not currently planned. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to their favorite charity.