William H. Rudolph III, known affectionately as Bill, passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 82, in Oceanport, NJ. Born on February 25, 1943, in Oceanside, NY, he grew up to be a man of exceptional kindness and dedication to his family, career, and hobbies.

Bill's professional life was marked by a longstanding commitment to River Terminal Development Company, where he served as a maintenance supervisor for 57 years. During Bill’s remarkable 50-year tenure at River Terminal Development, he began as an electrician in the Scrap Division, where the company dismantled U.S. Merchant Marine and Navy vessels, including the aircraft carriers Essex and Randolph. He later became the Lead Electrician, and as the company transitioned into real estate development, he took on the role of Head Electrician. In addition, Bill served as Head Plumber and led the Mechanical Maintenance Department, supervising all these divisions with expertise and dedication.

In recognition of his extensive knowledge and skill, Bill was licensed by the State of New Jersey as both a Master Electrician and a Master Plumber—a rare distinction requiring exceptional expertise, experience, and education. Beyond these roles, he was also a machinist, possessing an extraordinary ability to troubleshoot and repair nearly anything. If a part was unavailable, he could craft a replacement himself.

Bill’s longstanding relationships with his colleagues, his remarkable skill, and his unparalleled talent will be deeply missed.

Outside of work, Bill pursued various interests with vigor. He had a deep passion for ice boating and was a proud member of the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club. His contributions to the club were immense, notably in providing direction and guidance on various mechanical and construction projects. His expertise and mechanical knowledge were a testament to the success of LBIB&YC. His dedication was commemorated in 2024 when the club's workshop was named in his honor.

Bill was also an avid collector and repairer of watches, especially pocket watches, and could often be found surrounded by his tools and machinery in his garage. Bill enjoyed family gatherings, where he relished the company of his loved ones over family dinners. On Saturdays, he could be found scouting garage sales for new additions to his tool collection, a hobby he enjoyed with his wife for many years.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Ruth; his children, Kathy Ciaglia (Mark) of Ocean Township, Matthew of Florida, Michele La Valle of Oceanport, and Heather (Edward) Magenheimer of Eatontown; his brother, David, of New Mexico; and his sister, Linda Prinz, of Florida. Bill was a proud grandfather to Melissa, Amanda, Joey, Evan, Christopher, Sophia, Lilah, Edward, Joseph, and Thomas, and a great-grandfather to Julianna, Emily, Brielle, Peter, Jax, William, and Kyndall. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William H. Rudolph and Mary; his sons, William H. Rudolph IV and Joseph Irons; his grandson, William H. Rudolph V; and his granddaughter, Christina Irons.

Bill's legacy is a blend of devotion, innovation, and familial love—a life truly well-lived, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Visitation for Bill will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 2nd, 2025 at the Damiano Funeral Home, located at 191 Franklin Avenue, Long Branch, New Jersey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3rd at Holy Trinity Church of Christ the King Parish in Long Branch.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of William may be made to the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club, honoring his lifelong passion and dedication. Donations can be made by check payable to the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club and mailed to 235 Renwick Place, Long Branch, NJ 07740.

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