Michael N. Rudin

Michael Nils Rudin, 68, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville.

He was born on November 19, 1956, in Bath County.

Mike married the love of his life, Cynthia “Cindy” Johnson Rudin, on July 5, 1980, together they built a life full of laughter, love, and an ever-growing collection of inside jokes. Mike's sense of humor and lighthearted spirit were always at the forefront.

Professionally, Mike found his calling in the automotive industry, where he dedicated over twenty-five years working at several respected dealerships—BMW of Charlottesville, Mercedes-Benz of Charlottesville, and ultimately Mercedes-Benz of Richmond, where he served as the Internet Sales Manager until his retirement in 2022. He also briefly served in the United States Navy.

Beyond his professional life, Mike enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved traveling to the beach, especially the Outer Banks, or relaxing at home with his wife, Cindy. A proud homeowner, Mike, found great joy in maintaining his yard, often seen riding his lawnmower or planting flowers.

He was a lifelong fan of the University of Virginia. Mike spent many years attending UVA football games at Scott Stadium, proudly supporting the Wahoos. He was also a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan. Whether it was college Saturdays or NFL Sundays, football was one of his greatest joys.

Mike’s “love language” was food, and he made sure no one around him ever went hungry. He found great joy in planning and preparing meals, trying new restaurants, or treating others to their favorite dishes. Generous to the core, Mike was always thinking of others, especially when it came to gift-giving. He delighted in surprising Cindy with elegant perfumes, just one of the many ways he showed his affection and thoughtfulness.

In his younger years, Mike enjoyed playing the guitar and drums, fishing, and camping. A lifelong rock music fan, Mike especially loved the band Aerosmith, who he saw multiple times over the years. One of his deepest connections was with his loyal dog, Lucy. The bond they shared was inseparable, and her passing in 2024, left him heartbroken.

But above all, Mike’s greatest pride and joy were his daughters, Layla Reid and Karla Clark, and his eight grandchildren. He spoke often of them with immense pride and love.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Elmer and Mary Ratcliffe Rudin.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 PM.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the doctors and nurses at the University of Virginia Medical Center for all their care and compassion, as well as the staff at Henry Funeral Home for their support during this time, and the many friends and neighbors of Mike and Cindy who have offered comfort, presence, and kindness through this most difficult time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Augusta Regional SPCA (PO Box 2014, Staunton, VA 24401).