Rudolf E. "Rudy" Doenges, a lifelong resident of Charlestown, entered into eternal life unexpectedly on Friday, June 11, 2021 at his home in Charlestown. He was 77 years of age.
Rudy was born in Boston on November 20, 1943, a son of the late Gerhard Doenges and Elli (Poth) Doenges. Rudy graduated from St. Mary's Catholic Elementary School in Charlestown; Charlestown High School, where he was involved in basketball and field and track; Dean Jr. College, where he participated in both basketball and football; Springfield College where he received his bachelor's degree; and Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY, where he received his Master's Degree in Elementary Physical Education.
He served in the US Navy on the USS WASP and later stayed in the service becoming the recreation director of Hanscom Airforce Base in Hanscom, Mass.
In Charlestown he was involved in the Boys and Girls Club where he was recognized as the third honorary member with a lifetime membership for all that he gave back to the club community. He was the original builder of Sprouts Garden on Medford Street. Later he worked with the local community kids to build another garden behind the Boys and Girls Club where he used over 3000 bricks to build this garden.
For many years, Rudy was instrumental in providing the community's needs with food through the Charlestown Food Bank out of St. Catherine's which is still providing food to this day. Every Thanksgiving he would accumulate hundreds of turkey donations for those less fortunate for them to enjoy this holiday.
As many in Charlestown would remember, he was a lifeguard at the Bunker Hill Public Pool. When he caught you running at the pool, he would say "give me 10". He was a referee for many sports, primarily basketball, at the High School level, Boston Neighborhood Basketball League (BNBL) and more. Rudy knew the rules of basketball extremely well, yet, when questioned, he would say "I call them like I see them!"
Rudy was a loving brother, son and uncle, who was strong-willed and independent and would always complete what he set out to do. He was Santa Claus to his many nieces and nephews, making Christmas extra-special for them. He had a wonderful positive attitude and when he spoke to you, you knew you were getting an honest answer. Always, if you needed help, Rudy would be there. He was loved by many and will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
Rudy is the devoted brother of Gerhard Doenges and his wife Audrey, Donald Doenges (Ret. Lt. BFD), Gretchen Doenges-Morrison, AnnaLiese Kirk and her husband Eddie, David Doenges and his wife Deborah and the late MaryLouise Doenges and Johannes Doenges. He is also survived by his many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Rudy's Funeral Service on Friday, June 18, 2021 at 11 A.M. in St. John's Episcopal Church, 27 Devens St. Charlestown. His burial will be private. There are no funeral home visiting hours.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Rudy's name to:
Charlestown Boys & Girls Club
15 Green St.
Charlestown, MA 02129
and/or
Harvest on The Vine Food Pantry
49 Vine St.
Charlestown, MA 02129