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Rudy (Rudolph) Jacob Francis

November 09, 1998 - May 21, 2023
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Posted by:

Diane Cowen

Lisa Dvorsky

Report Obit

Posted by:

Diane Cowen

Lisa Dvorsky

Report Obit

Rudy (Rudolph) Jacob Francis

November 09, 1998 - May 21, 2023

On May 21, 2023 Rudy (Rudolph) Francis passed away at the age of 24. Rudy was born on November 9, 1998 in Berkeley, California to parents Joshua Francis and Lisa Dvorsky. The family moved to Santa Cruz before Rudy turned 2 years old and remain in town with his three siblings.

Rudy did well in elementary, middle, and high school, graduating from Soquel High in 2017 and going on to take classes at Cabrillo College.

Rudy was an intelligent and precocious child, full of love for his family and friends. He loved playing pool from a very young age, calling it “pool ball” he would ask strangers for quarters so he could continue to play. He loved music and art, leaving behind an inspiring collection of drawings and ceramics. He cared deeply about current events, politics, the environment, and fairness. He went through life with an open heart and a strong mind and will.

Rudy’s immense ability to love and accept drew so many people to him from all walks of life. Very rarely did he make acquaintances, as more often than not he quickly developed deep meaningful connections with people. He was the kind of person others would describe as someone you could talk to about anything, including personal struggles. He was effortlessly able make a person feel safe and cared about. His sense of humor was unique and addictive, making people want to be around him constantly. He would take people in who needed shelter, warmth, food and love regularly without hesitation. Many times he would hide friends who were down on their luck in his bedroom so his family members wouldn’t interfere. In the end it was almost impossible to tell him he couldn’t, which made the household gregarious and full of life for many years.

Rudy had the same magnetic relationship with animals from the time he was born. If you had the opportunity to witness him hanging with his beloved dog, Atlas, or any other creature, it was a truly a beautiful moment to behold. His family often referred to him as “Dr. Doolittle” from a very young age.

Rudy is preceded in death by his grandmother Betsy. He is survived by his parents, Lisa and Josh, his loving brothers Niko and Cian, his sister Lucy, his grandparents Jon and Sally, his aunts and uncles Rachel and Josh, Zak and LeAndra, Shoshana and Tim, Cindy, and Diane and Cody, as well as cousins Sahara, Dakotah and Elijah, Ian and Danny, Maggie and Quinn, and devoted friends Ellis, Riley, Max, Loraine, and countless more who were like family in Rudy’s heart.

Rudy will always be in our hearts as we have always been in his.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date and time to be determined by the family.

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Condolences 16

Alexia Ritchie Our hearts and love go out to your family. Rich, Josh, Clare and Alexia Ritchie + the Rameys.
over 1 year ago

Justine M Rudy, You were such a kind hearted human— thank you for being my friend when I had none. You are apart of Santa Cruz that I will never forget. ❤️
over 1 year ago

Rachel Jackson So many wonderful memories come to mind… Our shared love for tigers! I have two given to me by my sweet Rudy that I will cherish forever!! Rudy had the greatest sparkling eyes and the most irreplaceable laugh.. I miss so much To my amazing Rudy, I love you more than you know… Love you always, Auntie Rachel
over 1 year ago

Hallie Frazer I am devastated to hear about this! Rudy was...and I want to believe still is, such a bright light! Though he does not exist in this plane in physical form, I feel he will continue to live immortally as a part of who we are as individuals and in family. His spirit will continue to be with his family and friends, surrounding us all with love and laughter 24/7....sometimes when we least expect it, as was his way. My love and condolences to Josh, Lisa, Lucy, Cian and all who were and are dear to him. God's blessings.
over 1 year ago

tamija Whitley My heart aches . I always will remember us forever .thanks for taking me in with your family.My words are lost watch over your mom and everyone else . My condolences are with your family 🖤
over 1 year ago

LeAndra Johnson
over 1 year ago

LeAndra Johnson Sending love
over 1 year ago

Julie Wilson Sending you all love. I hope Rudy finds peace and happiness in his next life. ❤️
over 1 year ago

Nathalie Allen Rudy, way too soon little cuz. Wish we spent more time together. Say hi to Nana, grandma Betsy, Uncle and great grandpa Rudy for me. You’ll always be remembered - see you again 🩵
over 1 year ago

Johnna Esquibel Since our freshman year at Soquel High! Thank you for always being so supportive, loyal, and sincere. I miss you buddy, I’ll see you again someday.
over 1 year ago

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