James "Jim" M. Rudolph, Sr.

James Michael "Jim" Rudolph Sr., 66, of Topeka, died at his home due to a medical emergency on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023.

Jim was born Aug. 17, 1957, in Topeka, the son of Edward and Anne Nelson Rudolph. He was a lifelong Topekan. He graduated in 1975 from Hayden High School and attended Washburn University.

Jim was a construction project manager, skilled millwright and member of the Painter and Allied Trade Union. He started working with KBS in 2015. He brought a wealth of experience to his position and worked with several of KBS' major clients. Jim was well respected in the construction industry by colleagues, co-workers, and clients.

Jim was the baby of his family but also the organizer, caretaker, photographer, guitarist, cook, baker. He loved connecting with his family members, providing support, and especially giving gifts. For his immediate family he made sure that a birthday never went by without a gift, cake, and ice cream. He enjoyed watching and playing sports; KU basketball and football were his favorites. In addition, he played baseball as a kid and coached several of his son's teams. He was an avid guitar player and his love for music was infectious. He was always willing to give guitar lessons, several family members and friends can attest. He spent 20 years with Linda Kay and the Lonestar Band, for which he was lead guitarist. They played at many area bars and restaurants. What Jim loved most of all was being a grandpa; regularly taking his grandchildren to parks and playgrounds and always showing up with small gifts or snacks.

Jim married the former Teresa Reynoldson on June 4, 1999, in Topeka. She survives at their home. Other survivors include Jim's son, James Michael "Mike" Rudolph, Jr. (Laura), of Topeka; two stepsons Jason Wunder (Jessica); and Justin Wunder (Elizabeth); two sisters, Joan Hrenchir, Berryton, and Kathy (Bill) McDonald, Topeka; a brother, Edward "Butch" (Sharol) Rudolph, Hutchinson. "Grandpa Rudolph" is also survived by five grandchildren: Caleb, Wesley, Hannah, Michael, and Samantha.

Jim will lie in state after 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, with the family being present from 5 to 8 p.m., at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. A rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at St. Matthew's Catholic Church in Topeka. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Topeka.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 S.W. 21st, Topeka, KS 66604. Contributions may be mailed or left with Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 S.W. 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, visit www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.