Rudolf Birkenkopf
Rudolf “Rudy” Birkenkopf, 77, of Seattle, Washington, passed away on June 26, 2025. He was born in Brooklyn, New York on August 22, 1947.
Rudy is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sally; children, Julianna, Kristine (Matt Stromberg), and Rudolf (Erin); grandchildren, Xavier and Celeste; as well as numerous relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolf and Dorothy Birkenkopf.
As a young adult Rudy excelled at bowling, contemplating going pro for a short period. He also was an expert at his school’s rifle range. He always loved music, even managing a band for a short period in Germany. Another passion was photography, including developing and printing his own pictures. But Rudy’s main story was one of family.
In 1968 Rudy was drafted into the Army and sent to Germany to serve his time. At the same time Sally went to Europe to explore the skiing scene. As fate would have it, Sally ended up getting a job in the cafeteria on the army base. And on Valentine’s Day of 1970 she and Rudy met and began the romance of a lifetime. They were married a short time later and remained in Germany starting a family and welcoming three children into their lives.
In 1981 Rudy and family moved back to New York from Germany where they raised their three children before moving to Seattle in 1992. Rudy held several jobs in Germany, New York, California and Seattle before becoming an insurance agent. He enjoyed the insurance business with the combination of customer service and technical aspects.
For most of his life, Rudy’s physical body fought him but his mental strength was a thing of beauty. He always endeavored to grow and take on new challenges. Whether he was operating his ham radio, harvesting mason bees, traveling, maintaining his trees or just continuing his education, he always put everything into what he was doing and did it with a smile that would warm you.
Rudy will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp memory, and love for his family. Rudy’s “concentration tongue” was a clear sign that his task was important and it always brought joy to his family.
In Rudy’s honor, contributions may be made to the Spondylitis Association of America –
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