NEW HAVEN — Rudy A. Drexler, 81, of New Haven, went home to be with his Lord on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. His loving and devoted wife, Mary, was by his side as he passed.
Born in Paterson, N.J., in 1939, he was the third child of Albert and Elsa and the brother of Hildegarde and Ursula. Rudy’s career in design engineering started at Singer-Kearfott in Wayne, N.J., and then brought him to Simmonds Precision in 1977.
The Vermont lifestyle was quickly embraced as well as the love he found at church when he met Mary Goodyear. They were able to spend three wonderful decades together, building their dream house and working hand in hand; often allowing themselves a moment to wipe the sweat from their brow to give thanks for their blessings, while sitting together on their favorite log.
Rudy and Mary enjoyed many years traveling by snowmobile, cruise ship, train and most recently by truck top camper. From the North Maine woods, across Canada, to Alaska; from Arizona to Newfoundland, Rudy made the plan and Mary kept the diary.
If you knew Rudy, you know how creative and meticulous he was. His vast knowledge and attention to detail were most evident in the “train room.” Many people have hobbies, but few reach the level of mastery like Rudy.
He is survived by his wife Mary; his daughter Michelle; his son Steve; his stepsons, Brian Goodyear and his wife Molly, Chris Goodyear and his wife Laura, and Todd Goodyear and his wife Jennifer; his grandchildren, Christina, Chiara, Logan, Nick, Addison, Lillian, Abigail, Ian and Wanda; many nieces and nephews; his dogs Cocoa and Shadow; and his beloved church family.
Flowers are welcome; memorial contributions can be made to Bristol Rescue Squad.
A celebration of life will be planned in the spring. Arrangements are under the direction of Sanderson Funeral Home. Online condolences at sandersonfuneralservice.com.◊