Obituary of Rudolf Schlichenmayer

Biography A long time Burlington resident, Rudolf R. (Buddy) (Rudy) Schlichenmayer, passed away in his home on March 26, 2011. He was 85. He was born in the family home outside of Bethune, Co. Aug 17, 1925. Rudy was proceeded in death by his mother Magdalene (Lena) (Weisshaar) and father Gottlieb Schlichenmayer; Six brothers Pete, Lawrence, Fredrick, Bernard (infant), Elmer, and George; Two sisters, Hulda Bauder and Freda Schaal, Cousin James Schlichenmayer. Rudy is survived by one brother Vernon Schlichenmayer of Chadron, NE, one sister-in-law Jean Schlichenmayer of Grand Junction, Co, several nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. He will be deeply missed by Mr. & Mrs. J. Curt Penney, Greg Carlin, Lester and Joanna Schlichenmayer who made his last wishes come true. As a young boy he raised Bourbon Red turkeys and could be seen herding them like flocks of sheep. He so loved the breed that after he moved from the family farm he kept a picture of them in his living room. He was responsible for milking the cow. When asked how he did that he would say, “When she came in to drink water I’d just milk her. But, I would have to be fast or she’d kick the bucket over.” Rudy was very active in the community as a guitar/music instructor. As this was a major part of his life for 38 yrs. After graduating the 8th grade at the little one room school house north of Bethune, Co. Rudy began his love of music with Sister Aerila of the Catholic Church in Stratton. He studied formal music for 10 Yrs. and got his teaching certificate. Rudy had one copy-write in 1960, a musical piece “Praise Ye the Lord” Psalm 106 1-4, written for a men’s choir. He was a devote Lutheran and belonged to the Immanuel Lutheran Church, where his musical talents lead him to direct the choir and play the piano for services. Rudy had taught children from St. Francis, KS to Flagler, Co. and also from Cheyenne Wells to Wray. He always said it was about the children even for one rough and tough cowboy. He not only taught music, but life lessons. Rudy took pride in holding 1 job for 38 years, at the Red Front Market owned by Bill and Teddy Yersin on Main St, in Burlington. He began in his early 20’s as a delivery boy which turned into the head butcher. Any one that knew him would say he was the best in town and always had candy for the kids. If it was a special cut he would go the extra mile and make sure you were satisfied. Rudy one word of advice to anyone that was single was to find someone special.