NEW MIDDLETOWN — Charles V. Rudge Jr., 76, passed away Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at his home.

Born on Sept. 15, 1948, in Youngstown, Chuck was a lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley, who devoted 31 years of his life to teaching in the Canfield Local School District before retiring in 2001.

Chuck earned his bachelor’s degree from Westminster College and went on to obtain his master’s degree from Youngstown State University. His passion for education and unwavering commitment to his students left a lasting impact on many lives, and he is remembered fondly by both colleagues and former students.

Chuck was a kind and loving man, whose faith in the Lord centered him. A devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, Chuck served on the church council and as council secretary, embodying his belief in service and community. He also held leadership roles at St. James Episcopal Church as junior warden and vestry member, reflecting his deep commitment to his faith and the well being of those around him.

In addition to his work with the church, he was proud to serve as past president of Protestant Family Services and dedicated his summers to beautifying the community through his work at Fellows Riverside Gardens and Terrace Gardens Nursery. Chuck loved gardening. His yard was his passion, spending many an hour working with his wildflowers and ferns. But Chuck’s greatest joy was his grandchildren, spending as much time as possible with them.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Diane Metzger Rudge, whom he married Aug. 12, 1972; his son, Charles (Michelle) Rudge III of Boardman; his cherished grandchildren, Brayden and Adelynn Rudge; his two sisters, Susan Rudge, Ph.D., of Oxford, and Nancy Rudge of Cincinnati; and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles V. and Gertrude Orr Rudge Sr.

A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Cornersburg. Family and friends may pay their respects from 10 to 11 a.m., prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zion Lutheran Church’s Memorial Fund, 3300 Canfield Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44511.

Professional arrangements are being handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.

(special notice)