Rudy was born Dec. 13, 1932, to Herbert David Sapper and Clara Matheu in Guatemala City, Guatemala. He came to the United States at the age of 11 to attend school in Prairie Du Chien, Wis., and studied printing at Carnegie Technical University in Pittsburgh, Pa. Rudy became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1954. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955, he returned to Carnegie Tech to complete his studies. Rudy’s Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers remained lifelong friends. After college, Rudy worked in Washington, D.C., at McCalls Printing Company before moving to San Diego, Calif., to become chief financial officer of Sapper Construction Company. The master’s swim program and golf were activities he especially loved. In 2005, Rudy and Joan moved to Pagosa Springs to enjoy retirement together in this beautiful place. They married at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, where they made very special friends who have become family. Rudy will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Joan Scott, of Pagosa Springs; children: sons Gerry and Doug Sapper, daughter Cathy Carrino, stepsons Chas and Drew Scott; their families include 11 grandchildren who loved him dearly.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 18, at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, Pagosa Springs. Memorial donations in Rudy’s memory may be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (pcf.org).
