Henry Valentine Shields “Val/Hank” Rudd, age 78, of Parsons, passed from this life Sunday, October 1, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his family.
Born Tuesday, February 14, 1939, in Parkersburg, he was a son of the late Robert L. and Lessy S. Rudd.
Henry was a 1956 graduate of Parsons High School. He served in the United States Navy as a SEABEE. He worked for the United States Government Weather Bureau as an auditor until 1969 when he became disabled. He was of the Methodist faith.
He published a book, “Hold Nothing,” which was about his life on the ice in New Zealand. Henry was an avid traveler, having traveled to many countries, including the South Pole, in Antarctica. He had been to nearly all the states in the United States, but always came home to West Virginia.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Holt Rudd, whom be married February 14, 1961, in North Beach, Maryland; and a niece, Susan Elaine Rudd.
Those left to cherish his memory are a sister, Naomi Harper, of Petersburg, Tennessee; a brother, Robert L. Rudd, and wife, Nancy, of Winchester, Tennessee; two nieces, Cornelia Chomech and Frances Gosnell; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Tucker County Senior Center.
Family will receive friends October 4 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Hostetler Funeral Home in Parsons with Rev. William Brown officiating. Henry’s request for cremation will then be honored.
Memorials may be made to the Tucker County Senior Center, 217 Senior Lane, Parsons, WV 26287; or the Disabled American Veterans.
Online condolences may be made at www.hostetlerfuneralhome.com
