Rudolph W. Walz

Rudolph W. Walz, "Rudy" a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 25, 1932, in Glen Ridge, Rudolph was raised in Bloomfield and Fayson Lakes, where he cultivated a warmth and kindness that would define his life.

Rudy’s journey was marked not only by his devotion to family but also by a profound commitment to community and innovation. He was a graduate of Bloomfield Tech in Bloomfield, NJ, where he honed his natural curiosity and inventive spirit. He proudly served as a United States Navy Airman, reflecting his dedication and service to others. He was a self-taught inventor and teacher. He worked for various companies, Daniel Motors and Wing Industries, before he went out on in his own creating multiple businesses; Flo-Con, TenRac and L&W Industries. He was particularly proud of his contributions to the design of a tennis racquet that was embraced by Wilson Sports, as well as the development of heat recovery units for industrial buildings.

His gentle nature was brought to life through his numerous roles, including being a former member of the Board of Trustees for the Bloomingdale United Methodist Church and a member of the Planning Board for the borough of Bloomingdale. His family and friends will remember him for never having said a bad word about anyone and for the kindness that he extended to all.

Rudy’s passion for life extended beyond his career; as a member of the Town and Country Motorcycle Club, Rudy developed his love of motorcycling, and before the kids, he even dabbled in the world of motorcycle racing. He enjoyed boating, fishing, and had a special affection for restoring a Model A Ford. In his later years he, along with Glenna and their beloved Chihuahua Felix, enjoyed traveling, around the country in their motor home. He savored every moment with his family, and through them, he built a legacy of love and strength. One of his proudest accomplishments was the construction of what is affectionately called “The Walz Compound”, as he practically designed and constructed his entire family home, a testament to his prowess as a builder and his unwavering dedication to his family's comforts.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Glenna (Taylor); daughters Donna Walz, Barbara Walz Adubato (spouse - Glenn), and Cathy Walz Lime (spouse – Mark), son Bob Walz (spouse - Randi); his cherished grandchildren: Kathy Neinstedt, Erik Neinstedt (spouse - Stuart), Steven Neinstedt (spouse - Todd), Christopher Neinstedt (spouse - Janelle), Jacob Lime (spouse- Caity), Jordan Walz, Erin Lime, and Phillip Walz; and two precious great-granddaughters, Sofia and Madelyn.

Rudolph was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Gertrude; his brother John Walz; and his twin sister Gert Fichtler.

A visitation will be held on March 7, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, Inc. in Butler, NJ. A funeral service will follow on March 8, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Bloomingdale United Methodist Church.

As we remember Rudy, we cherish a life filled with love, discovery, and an unwavering dedication to those he cared for most. His legacy of kindness and inventive spirit will continue to inspire every soul he touched. In lieu of flowers the family is asking to make donations in Rudy’s name to Bloomingdale United Methodist Church, 65 Main Street, Bloomingdale, NJ 07403.