Rudy Brownell

WATERSMEET, Mich. - Rudy Brownell, 81, of Watersmeet, passed away Feb.21, 2014, at his home.

He was born in Calderwood on Jan. 6, 1933, to Homer and Gertrude (Christie) Brownell. His parents passed away while Rudy was young, and he was raised by his siblings with the help of his aunt and uncle, Ada and Lynn Brownell.

Rudy was a proud veteran of the Korean War, during which he received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He was a member of VFW Post 8400 in Land O' Lakes, Wis., and American Legion Post 24 of Watersmeet. He loved dancing and was called "Rockin' Rudy" by his many friends. In his later years, Rudy enjoyed the peace and tranquility of his "camp."

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Scott Brownell; sisters, Ruth, Ethel, Ila, Elaine, Frances and Olie; and brothers, Richard, Robert, John and Ralph.

Rudy is survived by his sons, Richard (Jean Miller) Brownell and Craig (Debra Sippel) Brownell; grandchildren, Mike (Carrie) Brownell, John (Tammy) Brownell, Jason (Suzanne) Brownell, Tony (Amber) Brownell and Christopher Brownell; and great-grandchildren Ashlyn, Zachary, Abigale and Landon Brownell and Grace and Jacob Ruder.

A memorial service for Rudy will be held Saturday, March 1, at noon CST at Watersmeet Baptist Church with the Rev. Skip Pullen officiating.

Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. CST until the time of service.

Friends may view Rudy's obituary and leave messages of remembrance at canefuneralhome.com.