Rudy Garland Pontiac Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Rudy G. Pontiac age 81 of Belmont, Michigan walked on to be with the creator on May 29th, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret J. Pontiac (Leo) in June 2008 and his mother Thelma C. Lepard (Pontiac) in March 2006. Surviving are his children Kevin (Cindy) Hudgins, James Pontiac, Leo Pontiac, Bryan Pontiac, and Mary Pontiac and eleven grandchildren. Rudy was a proud direct descendant of Chief Pontiac. Born in McBain, Michigan on June 22, 1940, he spent much of his early life cherry picking with family in Northern Michigan. With only an eighth-grade education Rudy knew the importance of having a strong work ethic and the importance in supporting his family. He would later obtain his G.E.D. and attend classes at Cornerstone. Rudy first met his late wife Margaret Leo in Grand Rapids, MI in the mid 1950’s where he walked her home. It would be years later in 1969 that they were married. Rudy lived a colorful life, and much was gained from working a variety of jobs. He enjoyed his time working at Lindy Lake Tavern doing a variety of jobs, to working on Mackinaw Island at the Grand Hotel as a part time bartender. But most of career was spent working in the automotive industry. He started at Lear Siegler Aerospace for about seven years and would then retire from General Motors after twenty-two years of service. He was a proud member of the United Auto Workers Union. He also served on the UAW Civil Rights Board. Rudy’s hobbies included archeology and his love of art whether it was drawing, painting, or woodworking. Rudy also had a green thumb and loved planting flowers all over the yard. He also spent time researching and passing on knowledge about our Native American heritage. Baseball was however his favorite sport, and the Detroit Tigers was his number one. He also played more avidly in his younger adult years in Meredith and Evart, MI as a relief pitcher and fast pitch. He also was a Detroit Lions and Red Wings fan and would tell his children stories about various athletes. Rudy also encouraged his children to play organized sports during high school. He enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

Tributes

Rudy Garland Pontiac

June 22, 1940 - May 29, 2022