Obituary of Bernice M. Rudis

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A Life Filled with Love, Family, and a Dash of Adventure

Bernice Rudis, a beloved resident of Burlington for 54 years, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the age of 88.

Born and raised in Boston, Bernice was one of four children born to William and Helen Hayden.  She graduated from St. Joseph's High School in Somerville. It was while out with friends at Kitty's Restaurant in North Reading that fate intervened, and Bernice met the love of her life, Robert Rudis. Their romance blossomed, and they married on October 1, 1960. For the first ten years of their marriage, they built a life together in Somerville. In 1970, they embarked on a new adventure, building their dream home in Burlington. Together, Bernice and Bob were a perfect team. Their spontaneous adventures, often starting with a simple coffee date that might end up in Vermont or Maine, reflected their love for life and exploration. Closer to home, they enjoyed their shared love of a good meal, with the Agawam Diner holding a special place in their hearts. Within their "castle" – their home - Bob tackled projects, big and small, while Bernice, ever supportive, cleaned up, meticulously decorated, and reveled in the finished product. Life flowed beautifully for them.  Two years ago, Bob passed away, taking a part of Bernice with him. They are now reunited, likely tackling remodeling projects in the great beyond.

While raising their family, Bernice thrived as a homemaker. Later, in the late 1970s, she embarked on a new chapter, joining Lahey Clinic in Burlington. After a dedicated career spanning over 30 years, she retired in 2011.  Family always came first for Bernice. Her door was always open, offering unconditional love and unwavering support. She was their biggest cheerleader, attending soccer games, dance recitals, school events – any activity that held importance for her loved ones. Though not always the loudest voice in the crowd, when she spoke, her words resonated with kindness, pride, and encouragement. Life's challenges were met with her characteristic humble resilience, unwavering faith, and an abundance of motherly love.

Bernice leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She was the beloved wife of over sixty years to the late Robert Rudis. She is survived by her loving children: Sandra Krieg & her husband John of Westford, Robert Rudis, Jr. of Pelham, NH (formerly of Andover), and Michael Rudis & his wife Lorrie of Merrimack, NH. She was predeceased by her siblings William Hayden, Jr., Gerard Hayden, and Donna Hayden. She was also the proud grandmother ("Boba") of ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington on Monday, Oct. 7 from 4-7pm. Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 9am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Margaret Church in St. Veronica Parish, www.stveronicama.org, 111 Winn St., Burlington at 10am.  Burial will follow at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.  

Memorials in Bernice’s name may be made to People Helping People, www.peoplehelpingpeopleinc.org, P.O. Box 343, Burlington, MA 01803.