Rudy J. Spanich, age 101, a longtime Hoquiam resident, died just two months short of his 102nd birthday. Rudy was born on March 13, 1923, in Molat, Yugoslavia, to Michael and Kate Spanich. He immigrated to the United States in 1928.

Rudy graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1941. He then began what would become a 51-year career at Lamb Grays Harbor Company in January of 1942. In 1944, Rudy left for a tour with the U.S. Navy, that took him to the South Pacific. When the war concluded Rudy returned home to resume life and career at Lamb Grays Harbor in 1946. He worked his way through his apprenticeship to become a journeyman machinist. In 1950 he had become machine shop foreman. He would go on to become a Field Serviceman, Sales Engineer, Machine Shop Superintendent, and Plant and Production Superintendent. Rudy was made Vice-president of Manufacturing in 1986, a position he held until his retirement in 1993.

On Oct. 1, 1947, Rudy married Evelyn Nygaard in Williston, North Dakota. To this union was born three children. Rudy and Evelyn were married for 63 years.

After retirement, Rudy and Evelyn enjoyed traveling and visiting friends and relatives in various parts of the country, including trips and cruises to Hawaii and Alaska. He also enjoyed spending time with family at the Summit Lake home.

Rudy was a longtime member of the Hoquiam Lions Club, joining in 1957. He received the Melvin Jones Award, the club’s “highest honor.” Rudy was also honored with the Polson Park and Museum Historical Society’s Pioneer of the Year Award for 2014.

Surviving relatives include his daughters, Kathy Wise and Debbie (Mark) Ramstad; grandchildren, Amy (Steve) Beebe, Jamie Wise, Shawna (Scot) Anderson, Chris Ramstad, and Katie (Marcus) Mason; and great-grandchildren Rhylee, Hudsyn, Asher, Rudy, Isaac, Jaxon, and Brayden.

Rudy was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn, son David, brother Leonard Spanich, and son-in-law Steve Wise.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, David Spanich Memorial Scholarship Fund or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at the Hoquiam Elks Lodge. There will be a private entombment at Hoquiam’s Sunset Memorial Park.

Arrangements are by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam.

Please record your thoughts for the family by signing the online register at www.colemanmortuary.net