Rudy Gard

Rudy's life began on February 9, 1938 in St. Joseph, the son of Robert L. Gard Sr. and Doris M. (Phillipi) Gard. He received his education at Ferris State Institute and graduated on the Dean's list as a pharmacist. Rudy was the owner and registered pharmacist for Gard Pharmacy for over 20 years and for Kmart Pharmacy in Benton Harbor and Sturgis for 20 years. He was united in marriage to the former Jane Douglas on January 17, 1970 in Benton Harbor. Rudy loved the water and he enjoyed being a member in the Michiana Yacht Club and captaining his yacht. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and loved cars. Rudy was a member of the Road Barron's Car Club in high school. His loving family includes his wife Jane Gard of Sister Lakes, children Sherry Starkey of Cadillac, Russell W. (Donna) Gard of Arizona, Derrick W. (Joanne) Gard of Elkhart, Damon T. Gard of Mattawan and Mandy McCrorey of Sister Lakes, grandchildren Kristy, Chelsea, Brittney, Nicholas, Jasmine, Allayna, Dylan, Jenna, Kendall, Morgan, Ben and Emma, and several nieces and nephews. Rudy passed away at his home surrounded by family on Wednesday September 15, 2010. He is preceded in death by a granddaughter Kaia Gard in 2009 and his brother Robert L. Gard, Jr. His family will receive friends on Saturday from 12 to 2 p.m. at Yazel & Clark Chapel where his funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday led by Pastor Jim Tippin. He will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery at a later date. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Rudy at www.yazel-clark.com .