Rudolph C. Kardos, Jr.

Rudy C. Kardos Jr., 78, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, on December 28th at 3:43 pm at Muhlenberg Hospital. Born on April 5th, 1946, in Bethlehem, PA, he was the son of the late Rudy C. and Helen (Gecsek) Kardos. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maxine A. (Bialek) Kardos.

Rudy was a dedicated and hardworking man who cherished his family and friends. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and had a big heart and a great sense of humor. With their home always open to all, Rudy and Maxine loved hosting cookouts and large dinners for family, friends, with Rudy stationed at the grill along with his beloved dog, Chester. Their evenings often ended with card games, lively conversations, laughter, and perhaps a friendly argument or two at the kitchen table that could last well into the night. Rudy also enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing with his wife, Maxine, endless hours playing with his granddaughter Skye when she was little and listening to Elvis Presley. In his later years, he looked forward to spending time with all his kids, the meals and salads prepared by his daughter-in-law, Tara, and talking with her about the Phillies,

Rudy had a long and varied career, retiring from Verizon in 2005 after 37 years of service. Before Verizon, he worked at Bethlehem Steel and on his grandfather's Hellertown farm. Alongside his work at Verizon, he also started several businesses with family and friends, including ventures in commercial painting and tiling, blacktop, salvage, and even a South Side hot dog shop. Rudy was a tireless worker and a great provider throughout his life. He was happiest when working on a home project or building something. He had a passion for construction, a skill he learned from his father and uncles while helping them build homes in the Lehigh Valley.

Rudy will be deeply missed by his family: his children, Rudy III of Philadelphia, Nevada, Stephie of Bethlehem, Raymond and daughter-in-law Tara of Orefield, Wendy, Shelly, and Tracy; his grandchildren, Dwayne, Skye, Lily, and Mischa. The family extends special thanks to Rudy's best friend, Ron Gogle, for bringing laughter and smiles to Rudy during his final days. Those moments of joy were invaluable during a difficult time and are deeply appreciated.

Services will be private and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to any of the following:

The Center for Animal Health and Welfare, 1165 Island Park Rd, Easton, PA 18042, Saint Jude's Children's Research Hospital, PO BOX 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929, Shriners Children's Processing Center, PO BOX 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394.

Online condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.