Mr. Ronald Dale "Doc" Rudwall, Sr.

SHERBURNE – Mr. Ronald Dale “Doc” Rudwall, Sr., age 73, passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023 following an unforeseen battle with cancer. At the time of his passing he was surrounded by his loving family. Born in Utica on May 28, 1949, Ronald was the son of the late John and Mary (Gorski) Rudwall. He attended Utica Free Academy and after graduation proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, honorably serving our country in Vietnam as a Gunner’s Mate from 1968-1974. Following his active duty, Ronald went on to further his education by attending Syracuse University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree. He then ventured to Binghamton University where he received a Master’s of Science degree in Zoology. At one time, Ronald had been married to the former Marykaren Elias, a union which brough the blessing of two children. He also shared in a loving relationship with Theresa Gates and was blessed with many special memories with her and her daughter, Brandi Gates. At one time, Ronald was employed as a Police Officer with the NY Mills Police Department. He was also an active member of the Sherrill and Frankfort Police Departments and was proud to retire from the Sherburne Police Department ~ a position and community that he lovingly embraced. Through these affiliations many long-lasting relationships transpired. Subsequently, he held a tremendous passion for nature and the outdoors which allowed him to excel as a Wildlife Biologist. He took his position with great determination as he always had a zest for and curiosity about mother nature. Ronald would say “embrace the curiosities of life, but come prepared!” The greatest gift Ronald ever gave his children was his time. How precious a gift it was. It provided for many unique adventures and experiences. Overall, he was a terrific, hot-headed man, smart, articulate, funny, curious, compassionate, and so proud. He believed the world could be evil and cruel but there’s always something good, you just have to adjust your angle or lens. He did not believe life was a set standard of black and white and that it reflects in different arrays of that in-between grey. He was non-judgmental and always asked the right questions! In his leisure time, Ronald enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved the holidays, especially Christmas Eve. He also found pleasure in Halloween time, as he and his daughter Amber would take their annual trip to Salem! Ronald took great interest in antiquing and auctions, and he possessed a vast collection of old books. He was also known to be a gifted woodworker. He never missed the opportunity for a healthy debate, especially when it came to politics. He was a proud member of the NRA and the American Legion. Ronald was spiritual at heart and loved his God, whose closeness he felt most when spending time outdoors. Ronald is survived by his daughter, Amber D. Rudwall-Hand and her husband Ryan who Ronald loved as a son and with whom he shared a close relationship ~ they always enjoyed riling everyone up together; his son, Ronald D. Rudwall, Jr. and his wife Jennifer Ryan-Rudwall who he affectionately referred to as his “favorite daughter-in-law;” grandchildren, Austin and Kaylee Ryan-Rudwall, Conner Rudwall, and Morgan Rudwall; 1 great-granddaughter, Emilia; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jack and Maryann Rudwall, Edward and Florence Rudwall, Robert Rudwall, and Joanne Rudwall; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and friends, David Maine with whom he shared over 35 years of friendship, and Bruce Elderkin. Ronald was preceded by his brother, William “Bill” Rudwall. Special thanks is extended the staff of the Syracuse VA Medical Center, especially Dr. Jay Muhammed for his friendship and compassion, he went above and beyond his call of duty. Gratitude is expressed to the nursing staff as well for their tender care. In keeping with his wishes there will be no public services. The family honored and celebrated Ronald’s life in an intimate and private gathering.

Mr. Ronald Dale "Doc" Rudwall, Sr.

May 28, 1949 - May 25, 2023