John Arthur Rudolph was born January 13, 1942, to E.C. Rudolph and Fannie Laura (Schuetterle) Rudolph at the Heights Hospital, Houston, TX.

John was a master craftsman in the emblematic jewelry business and was often called upon to create official badges and belt buckles for the Texas Rangers and other law enforcement agencies of Texas. John loved to cook and have family and friends over for barbecue and beer. He was also in charge of the big family meals for years so that he was always prepared to make awesome food and an occasional surprise for the family get togethers. For several years, John and Peggy cooked for the original Salt Grass Group on their annual trail ride to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. John was a hunter and a fisherman and was the proud owner of a small ranch in Rocksprings, Texas, that his grandsons fittingly name "El Rancho Grumpy". Many hours of fun and sharing were spent with family and friends at El Rancho Grumpy.

John is survived by his wife of 37 years, Peggy; children Rachelle Bennett and husband Gary, John Jr. Rudolph and wife Betsy, Kenny Crawford, and Genie Matula and husband Scott; grandsons Gunnison Matula, Colby Stump, Travis Bennett and Parker Bennett and great-granddaughter, Rylie Stump; sister Rebecca Lillico and husband Bill, nephew Jason Lillico and nephew Ryan Rudolph.

John was preceded in death by his parents E.C. and Fannie Laura, his first wife, Karen Koontz Rudolph; brother Fred Rudolph, nephew Rodney Rudolph and many dear friends.