Kevin Lee Rudd

Kevin Lee Rudd, age 68, passed away on June 23,2025 due to complications from a stroke. He was born on August 23, 1956, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Kenneth and Barbara Rudd. He married the love of his life, Peggy Rudd, on May 23, 1978.

Kevin was a true outdoorsman—a wanderer at heart who found joy in red rock canyons, mountain trails, and the solitude of a backcountry lake. He was known for rappelling into remote places few dared to explore, often placing his own anchors and carving his own path—literally and metaphorically. Whether backpacking through Yellowstone, sharing the stillness of Shoshone Lake, or hiking the rim of Hell Hole Canyon near Kayenta, Kevin felt most connected to God with dirt on his boots and a view that took his breath away.

A skilled craftsman and builder, Kevin specialized in framing and built three homes for his family in Ivins, Utah. His hands told the story of a man who loved his work—creating things that lasted, shaping the growth of his community as a contractor and later as a respected building inspector for the city of Ivins. Known for his fairness, deep knowledge of building code, and humble authority, Kevin earned the admiration of coworkers, city leaders, and residents alike.

But his artistry didn’t end with hammer and nail—Kevin was also a gifted musician, writing and recording original songs that became beloved family treasures. With a guitar in hand and a sparkle in his eye, he performed cowboy poetry and music in the early days of Tuacahn and often filled the living room with melody. He also crafted Native American flutes by hand—each a gift, each a reflection of his reverence for nature, history, and beauty.

Kevin loved history, especially the Lewis and Clark era, and had a deep respect for Native American culture. He found joy in hunting for arrowheads, watching birds, and bringing life to his interests with quiet passion and curiosity. He was a scoutmaster who inspired young minds with stories, laughter, and open skies—and passed on that love of wild places to his children and grandchildren.

His family was blessed to witness a whole new side of Kevin with the birth of his grandchildren. His love for being a grandpa was unparalleled, and it unveiled a new facet of his complex personality that everyone in his life had the privilege of witnessing. As a grandpa he was present, patient, and affectionate. He was anxious to share his love of adventure with his grandchildren and was equally enthusiastic when they shared the things they loved with him in return. He had no way of knowing that when he built his house in Ivins, it would be “home” to his grandkids for many years. The lasting memories of hiking, hunting for arrowheads, playing music, fishing, and cuddling are the greatest gifts he left to them.

He was deeply spiritual in his own way. He loved the Book of Mormon and bore testimony of its truthfulness to his children and grandchildren throughout his life. He loved and accepted others without judgment. He believed in owning his journey, a truth reflected in the lyrics of his original song Me, Myself, and I, a testament to the personal responsibility and quiet strength with which he lived his life.

Kevin is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy; their three children and spouses: Travis (Laura), Jed (Kaydence), and Charity (Randy) Bangerter; ten grandchildren who adored him; one brother, Gary, and two sisters, Pam and Camille. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Barbara, and a brother, Randy.

He will be remembered for his sense of adventure, his love of music and craftsmanship, his steadfast kindness, and his unwavering devotion to Peggy. He lived by his own compass—never living for others but always inviting them into the beauty he found along the way.

His family wishes to publicly recognize and express humble gratitude to Pathway Hospice for their love and care of Kevin. It was unsurpassed. They also wish to thank the staff and residents at Snow Canyon Retirement for their kindness and unparalleled support for his family through this difficult time.

A viewing/memorial will be held at the LDS chapel located at 260 E 1060 S, Ivins Utah on Saturday 06/28/2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. For those traveling long distances, please join us for dinner starting at 4:30PM at the chapel.

A Celebration of Life for Kevin will be held in our home in Ivins on Saturday October 4th, please join us.