Rudolph (Rudy) E. Schleben

Mr. Schleben passed away peacefully Thursday evening, December 10, 2015 at Bay Shores Nursing Home with his daughter by his side. Age 89 years. The son of the late Rudolph and Augusta (Grulke) Schleben was born May 3, 1926 in Rogers City, Michigan. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church. Mr. Schleben retired from Aid Association for Lutheran Insurance Co. (Thrivent Financial) as a salesman. He loved watching U of M Football, going fishing, being with his grandchildren, having a beer and singing his favorite song, Bad Bad LeRoy Brown. He served his country in the U.S. Army during W.W. II. in the Pacific Arena.
Left behind to cherish his memories are two sons and one daughter-in-law; Mark Schleben of Clearwater, FL., James and Dev Schleben of Grand Ledge, MI, one daughter and son-in-law; Dr. Barbara and Dr. Jerry Appold of Bay City, MI seven grandchildren and their spouses; Nicole and Tom Judd, Bradford Schleben, Jenna and Matt Salvati, Margeaux Appold, Maxwell Appold, Megan Appold and Mandy Schleben, and one beloved great grandchild, Savannah Judd. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his beloved wife; Martha J. Schleben.
He was a kind man with exceptional integrity. His motto was "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" and he lived by it. He was never hesitant to give to give a compliment, thoroughly enjoyed people, and had an excellent sense of humor.
Funeral and Committal Services will take place Monday, December 14, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Officiating will be Rev. William H. Allwardt with private interment in Elm Lawn Cemetery. Members of the Bay County Veterans will meet at the funeral home on Monday at 10:15 a.m. to perform military honors. The family will be present at the funeral home on Sunday to receive family and friends from 12:00 o'clock noon to 4:00 p.m. and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to Zion Lutheran Church.