December 1, 1939 – November 23, 2024
Rudy Max Cornay, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud patriot, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024 in Rapid City, S.D. Born December 1, 1939, in Clayton, New Mexico, Rudy lived a life full of dedication, service, and love.
The son of Antonio and Florentina (Cruz) Cornay, Rudy grew up on the family ranch in Folsom, New Mexico, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love of the outdoors. He graduated from El Rito High School in 1958, earning the Golden Gloves for boxing at 118 pounds the same year—a testament to his determination and grit.
In 1958, Rudy moved to Hot Springs, S.D., where he began a 35-year career with the VA Medical Center, working in administration and as a painter. It was at the VA where he met the love of his life, Mary. They were set up on a coffee date by their respective managers, and the rest is history. They were married on February 4, 1961, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hot Springs. Their 63-year union was marked by countless cherished memories.
In 1967, Rudy became a member of the South Dakota National Guard 109th Engineering Battalion based in Hot Springs after completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Rudy loved his country. His patriotism shone brightly as he flew the American flag daily, embodying his deep respect for the United States.
Rudy was a cornerstone of his community, serving for 23 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department and as a longtime boxing coach for the Hot Springs Elks Boxing Club, sharing his passion for the sport with others. He was a dedicated member of the Jaycees, the PTA, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion Post #71. His selflessness extended to donating an extraordinary 24 gallons and one pint of blood to United Blood Services over his lifetime.
He took immense pride in his family, finding joy in watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in their various activities. An avid sports fan, he cheered for the Oakland Raiders, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He especially loved boxing, football, rodeo, and women’s basketball.
Rudy took great pride in his home. Rudy had a gift for fixing anything that broke and keeping his honey-do lists short. His deep appreciation for nature really shone while working in his expansive yard. He kept his yard pristine in all seasons.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his children Monica (Don) Repp of Rapid City; Michele (Bob) Zadalis of Omaha, Neb.; and Mark (Becky Roup) Cornay of Colorado; grandchildren Stacie (Caleb) Straub, Chris Mann, Jacob Zadalis, and Lauren Zadalis; great-grandchildren Audrey and Natalie Straub; his sister, Mary Alice Cornay of Folsom, N.M.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers.
Rudy will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. A celebration of Rudy’s life will be held at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Friday, November 29, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. The Rosary will precede the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. on the same day. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital.
Interment of Ashes will take place at a later date at Custer Cemetery in Custer, S.D.