Rudy Rae Eakins

Rudy Rae Eakins, 69, passed away on May 25, 2026, in Mishawaka, Indiana after a well fought battle with cancer.  He was born December 18, 1956 in Mishawaka, Indiana to Charles Eakins Sr. and Natachia (Lee) Eakins.  He was preceded in death by his sisters, Leoneta Good, Linda Strebeck, his brothers Walter and Robert Eakins, his nephew Chad Eakins and his parents.  He is survived by his brother and devoted caretaker, Charles Eakins, Jr., his twin, Trudy (Gary) Wagner, brother Patrick (Val) Eakins and his nieces and nephews.

Rudy joined the Marines in 1981 and was honorably discharged in 1999.  He proudly served in Operation Desert Storm as a Harrier jet fueler.  He lived on bases in Cherry Point and Camp Pendelton and spent his career traveling the world.  He enjoyed camping, woodworking and making signs as gifts for friends and family.  Rudy spent many hours volunteering at Camp Millhouse, helping his friend Molly move across the country and entertaining his grand nieces and nephews with Hershey's kisses.  He loved good pancakes, caring for others and was especially proud to be an American.  Rudy fought a long and courageous battle with cancer, leaving this earth on Memorial Day as a true soldier. His kindness, fun spirit and generous soul will be deeply missed. 

Visitation will be on Friday May 29th, from 1:00p.m.-2:00 p.m., with Funeral Services at 2:00 p.m. at Hanley and Sons Funeral Home-Southwest Chapel, 23421 S. R. 23, South Bend, IN 46614, with a burial to follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park in Granger.

The Hanley and Sons Funeral Home is handling arrangements and extends our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to all of Rudy’s family and friends. 

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