Methuen, MA – Frank R. “Rudy” Pivovar, 66, died Friday, June 20, 2008 at the Caritas Holy Family Hospital. Born in Manchester, NH, Rudy was the son of Shirley (Goddard) and the late Frank Pivovar.
Rudy was a graduate of Tenney High School in Methuen and graduated from Emerson College where he studied speech and theatre. He went on to attend Rittners School of Floral Design where he developed his love of floral arranging. Rudy owned a floral and decorating company where he created lavish arrangements for many celebrities. Because of his love and talent for design, he had the privilege of being invited to decorate at the White House under President Ford. He was the proprietor of Windham Country Flower Shop.
Rudy has been associated with pageants for more than 20 years having directed, emceed and judged for various systems, including the Miss New Hampshire, Miss USA and Miss America pageants. He enjoyed show business and helped with numerous fashion shows around the area.
He was a professional pianist, vocalist and former dance instructor.
Rudy was very active in the community and had a special mission to help revitalize Methuen’s history. He was a former board member and officer of the Methuen Historical Society and was very involved in the Methuen Festival of Trees as well as other organizations working to promote Methuen’s history. Rudy was also a lifetime member of the Derry-Salem Lodge of Elks # 2226 and a member of the Windham Senior Center.
Rudy is survived by his mother, Shirley (Goddard) Pivovar, his sister Judy Follansbee, nephew Michael Follansbee, his longtime companion, David Tryder of Methuen and many friends.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday afternoon, June 24, 2008, at 1:30 P.M. from the Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence Street in Methuen. Interment will follow at The Cemetery on the Hill in Windham, NH. Friends are invited to attend calling hours on Monday, June 23, 2008 from 4 to 8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Memorial Giving