Rudy Zikesch

"Together Again" Rudy Zikesch , 88, passed away June 26, 2015 at 8:00 am surrounded by his family at his residence in Bonita Springs, Florida. He was born January 21, 1927 in Steyr, Austria. Rudy had lived in the Cleveland area for most of his life prior to moving to Bonita Springs, Florida. An incredible man and role-model, Rudy immigrated to America at the age of 12 from his hometown with his mother Anna Dria. He was a Veteran of WWII and a member of the US Army Ranger Battalion. Although he rarely spoke of his experiences, Rudy was a key player in the single greatest POW rescue mission in United States history, rescuing 513 troops behind enemy lines. Upon returning from overseas Rudy began engineering school at Ohio State University and Fenn College under the GI Bill. He partnered in manufacturing business venture, Trio Precisioneering, and created numerous jobs in the Greater Cleveland Area. Rudy was an avid fisher, hunter, and outdoorsman. He loved “Our Mountain Retreat” Cabin where he enjoyed playing cards with all of his friends. His exceptional leadership and work-ethic, coupled with his benevolence and wisdom are rare to find. He welcomed all into his house and always had a story to share to make you think and laugh. This was always paired with a stiff ‘rum and coke’. Rudy always stressed the importance of values and family. Rudy was preceded in death by the love of his life “One-and-Only” Dorothy Zikesch (Subwick) (pictured above) and his mother Anna Dria (Pete Finohr.) Survivors are his sons Mark (Laurie) Zikesch and Rick (Ellen) Zikesch; grandchildren: Nicole Fish (Bill), Matthew Zikesch (Heather), Alexandra Zikesch, Cory Zikesch, Kyle Zikesch; great-grandchildren: Charlie and Carter Fish. Rudy will be laid to rest at a private family burial in Mentor Cemetery, Mentor. A celebration of Rudy’s life will be held from 2-6 p.m. Saturday July 18th at LaMalfa Party Center 5783 Heisley Rd., Mentor, OH 44060. Contributions may be made in memory of Rudy to the American Cancer Society 10501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44106. Arrangements are entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

Rudy Zikesch

January 21, 1927 - June 26, 2015