Obituary of Rudy Ungaro

Peace came to Rudy early morning November 5th. It was a long journey home. His sparkle, wit and humour will be forever missed. Born in Michel, BC, in 1925. Rudy was predeceased by his cherished wife of 58 years, Joyce. As well as his sister Evelyn, brother Wayne and son Gary. Rudy is survived by his children Jim (Del), Randy (Laura), Jeannine, and Janice, along with his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren. A World War II veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy, Rudy fought in the unrelenting Battle of the Atlantic. Following his discharge Rudy joined his family in Vernon. His mother asked the Overwaitea manager Arnold Cherry, “Would you give my son a job?” There he “donned the green apron” the beginning of a long and exciting career with Overwaitea. Moving quickly up the ranks, he was appointed senior clerk and transferred to Chilliwack. And it was there, at a dance, he looked across the room and spotted a lovely lass named Joyce. Rudy was smitten. They were married in 1952. Rudy was promoted to manager and immediately transferred to Salmo. Campbell River followed as did White Rock, back to Chilliwack, then Trail and Parksville. A promotion to head office brought the family to Maple Ridge in 1973. Rudy retired after 35 faithful years with the company. That is when he and Joyce began their travel adventures. He was an avid curler and lawn bowler, strived to be “the great golfer” and loved a good fishing trip. Later in life he became a volleyballer down at The Happy Wanderer, Rudy and Joyce’s Indio desert paradise for 30 years. They loved it there, making many very dear friends. Rudy lived a good life. A happy life. The family want to express their deepest gratitude to the staff up on Webster’s Corner at Baillie House. They showed incredible compassion, and put up with Rudy’s antics in the early days…and there were many. The family also want to thank Veterans Affairs Canada for maintaining their stellar commitment in caring for their WWII vets. And special thanks to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #88 who will perform the honour guard at the service. Thanks as well to Dr. Danny Wong, Haney Presbyterian Church, Rev. Gerard Booy and Rev. Dorne Cornish for their incredible support. Rudy was truly a charismatic guy. Everybody has a great Rudy story. What better legacy than that? Celebration of Life Please join us to celebrate his life on Saturday November 28th, 11:00am at Haney Presbyterian Church. 11858 216th St. Maple Ridge. Expressions may be left at below. Donations In lieu of flowers please consider The Alzheimer Society of Canada. Contact information: