Rudolph "Rudy" Thomas Lenhardt

Rudolph “Rudy” Thomas Lenhardt, 76, of Fargo, North Dakota, sadly passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer. Throughout his journey, Rudy displayed incredible courage and unwavering hope. He fought with grace, determination, and humor, inspiring everyone who knew him.

Born in Dickinson, North Dakota, to Louis Nicholas Lenhardt and Florence (Olheiser) Lenhardt, Rudy was a man whose laughter filled every room, always wearing his signature big, bright smile. To his family, Rudy was a hero, steadfast, supportive, and always present.

Rudy lived in Bismarck before moving to Grand Forks to attend the University of North Dakota. It was at UND that he met the love of his life and forever partner, Sue. Rudy and Sue were married 53 years and began their beautiful family living in Grand Forks, Bismarck, and eventually Fargo.

Rudy is survived by his devoted wife, Susan “Sue” (Walters) Lenhardt, his children;
Michelle Lenhardt, Mark Lenhardt (Katie), and his daughter Mandy Lenhardt Maietta, who preceded him in heaven. His grandchildren; Dominic Maietta (Natalie), Lauren Schmidt (Cole), Dante Maietta, Lilly Maietta, Grace Lenhardt, Adeline Lenhardt, and great-grandchildren: Margo, Charlotte, Josie, and Mason. Rudy’s seven siblings: Linda Donaldson (Kit), Michael Lenhardt (Dena), Bob Lenhardt, Dave Lenhardt, Mona Koebele (Dave), Peter Lenhardt (Renee), and sister Mary Lenhardt Hennum, who preceded him in heaven. Rudy’s family will carry his memory forward with tremendous love. He was the rock of his family, their patriarch, always ready with a helping hand, a comforting word, or an interesting conversation. After the heartbreaking loss of his beloved daughter Mandy, Rudy watched over her children with quiet strength and unwavering love.

Growing up, he served as an altar boy and a strong Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. At Trinity High School in Dickinson, Rudy sang in the choir with his beautiful tenor voice and played basketball and baseball. At the University of North Dakota, he became the Pledge Educator for the Sigma Chi Fraternity, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime. Baseball was Rudy’s favorite sport, and he remained a loyal fan of the Minnesota Twins throughout his life. He also cheered on the Minnesota Vikings and enjoyed watching the University of North Dakota hockey games.

Professionally, Rudy built a distinguished career as a financial consultant and served as the Group and Pension Manager for both Equitable Life and Lincoln National, before founding his own investment firm, Dakota Capital Retention.

Music filled Rudy’s soul, he enjoyed all genres, and his favorite band was The Eagles. His deep love of music was a gift he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Rudy encouraged his two daughters to pursue their performing dreams and coached his son in baseball, nurturing him into a pitcher. In his semi-retirement, he loved simply being surrounded by those he loved the most. He was happiest spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, preparing his delicious gourmet meals and singing, dancing, watching movies with them all. Rudy was a talented golfer and runner and enjoyed a day at the golf course with his friends and family and running marathons. This joyful spirit is the heart and essence of Rudy Lenhardt.

Rudy’s siblings will forever remember the way he lit up every gathering with his stories, humor, and big-hearted personality. To all of us, he was larger than life. He always told his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends, “When I go, reach your arms up to heaven and send a prayer for me.” As his favorite band, The Eagles, sing, “Love Will Keep Us Alive.” And so it will.

We will miss Rudy dearly and keep him alive through our love, our stories, and our treasured memories. We already feel the signs he sends, and we know his presence will stay with us—now and forever.

A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life will be held for Rudy at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fargo, North Dakota, on January 17th at 11:00 AM.