Quilts presented to Norman and Rosie Rude

Quilt of Honor presented to Norman Rude

Norman B. Rude was raised in the Gonvick community and attended a small country school through the eighth grade. In early spring, at age 15, he left the area to work as a farmhand near Wolf Point, Montana. The long days taught him practical skills and helped him learn how to manage on his own.

 In 1954, at age 19, Norman enlisted in the United States Army. He was sent to Fort Bliss, Texas, for basic training in March 1954. After basic training, he was bused to Headquarters, 36th AAA Missile Battalion, at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, for military training. He received advanced training working on generators for Nike Anti Aircraft Missile Systems. Norman’s experience in the Army strengthened his desire to learn and helped him build toward becoming a mechanic.

He was honorably discharged in February 1956. After returning to the Gonvick community, Norman married Rosella Cole in August 1957 and raised five children. He worked as a mechanic for several employers, including Gully Coop, Bagne Oil of Gonvick, Northern Pipeline, and Wayne Torgerson of Clearbrook.

In 1988, he opened Rude’s Repair in Gonvick and ran the shop until retiring in 1999. His son Mike then operated the business until his death in 2020. Today, Norman’s grandson Ryan owns Rude’s Repair and continues serving the Gonvick community.

Norman contributed to community service projects for more than 55 years including a lifetime member of Gonvick American Legion Post 304 and a member of the Gonvick Lions Club. He also served with the Gonvick Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, including several years as Fire Chief.

On July 2, 2026, at age 91, Norman was presented with an honor quilt in recognition of his more than 58 years of Legion membership and dedication to the community. The presentation was made by Leroy Sundquist, Commander of Gonvick American Legion Post 304.

Also on this day, Norman’s wife, Rosella Rude, was presented with a quilt of service from the Gonvick American Legion Auxiliary in recognition of more than 40 years of service. The presentation was made by Karen Oftelie, President of the Gonvick American Legion Auxiliary.

Submitted by Karen Oftelie, President of Gonvick American Legion Auxiliary.