It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Christopher “Papa” Rudd who passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, at the age of 82 at the Dryden Regional Health Centre surrounded by family and friends.
Born in England on February 8, 1944, to parents Robert and Olive, Chris came to Canada when he was young, momentarily living with his sister Phyllis in Vancouver before moving to Dryden and building a life filled with family, friendship, hard work, and plenty of stories along the way.
He worked for many years in construction as a bricklayer and fostered many children. He became known as “Papa” through the many children he and his wife Alvena, or fondly remembered as “Grandma”, had welcomed into their home over the years as foster parents. Their love for children was a defining part of their lives together. To the many kids they fostered, Chris was more than a foster parent. He was Papa, a name that suited him perfectly and stayed with him. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life like fishing with Alvena’s family, watching television, and, naturally, being from England, enjoyed a good pint of beer. He also enjoyed playing the ponies, keeping an eye on the horses and doing some online betting.
In his later years, Chris could often be found out on his scooter, which became a familiar part of his daily life. He also had a love for music and a voice that could turn heads. Around a fire, he could sing Roy Orbison and the country blues so convincingly that for a moment, you could swear Orbison himself was there. One of the greatest gifts of Chris’s final month was meeting his son and granddaughter from England for the very first time. After many years apart, having that time together created a lasting cherished memory.
He leaves behind three grandsons James, Brendan, and Bryian. Three granddaughters Richann, Samantha, and Ava. Three stepdaughters Ronda, Leslie, Shenanda, as well as his son Steven.
He will be remembered as Papa—a man who opened his heart and home to children, who loved his family, a good fishing trip, a good pint, a song around a fire, and the everyday moments that make a life. He would want us to be happy and cherish each other and each day. He loved every single one of us until the very end.
A Celebration of Life to honour Grandma’s and Papa’s backyard creation will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026, after the burial has taken place.
In lieu of flowers and donations, spend some time with loved ones…
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