Paul M. Rudolph

November 7, 1959 – January 29, 2024

In Loving Memory of Paul M. Rudolph

Paul M. Rudolph, 64 years young, of Sewell, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 29th, 2024. In the face of tremendous pain and adversity, Paul courageously navigated through a journey marked by profound challenges and physical struggles. Despite the relentless grip of suffering, he found solace in the company of loved ones that provided unwavering support.   He was Surrounded by love and compassion and his spirit was uplifted by those who cherished him most. He was able to find peace after a valiant battle against stage 4 metastatic duodenal adenocarcinoma.   His difficult journey ended at home peacefully and comfortably.

Born on November 7th, 1959, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Paul was the cherished son of Stanley Rudolph and Ida (nee Aukburg). His childhood was spent in Lafayette Hills, where he developed a love for swimming, basketball, hiking, camping, and exploring the woods with his friends. His outdoor adventures, including long walks down the Wissahickon, created lasting memories. His early work experience as a young boy included time at his uncle's arcade in Avalon NJ, which is where he cultivated his deep appreciation for the shore.

Paul's formative years were marked by his father's influence, a pharmacist who opened Village Square Pharmacy in Perkasie PA, where Paul spent much of his youth.

Despite the untimely loss of his father at the age of 17, Paul's resilience propelled him forward. He embraced tennis in his teenage years, playing second singles at Temple University. A pivot toward photography led him to work on cruise ships, capturing precious moments for passengers, developing film in the evenings and enjoying the social scene on deck during the daytime.

Photography evolved into optical, and this is where Paul excelled. After 20 years of dedication working in North Plainfield NJ, he and his domestic partner, Jill Gaspari, realized their dream of owning a Pearle Vision in Glassboro, NJ. Paul's passion for optics, coupled with a warm, friendly, and casual approach, left an indelible mark on his profession.  His work ethic was second to none.  He mentored many apprentices over the years, instilling his love for the field of optics. His two cherished apprentices successfully obtained their licenses and are currently continuing their work in Glassboro NJ, preserving and perpetuating his legacy.

Paul found enormous joy in Ventnor NJ, his beach home sanctuary. His days were filled with swimming, biking, fishing, walks on the beach with Jill, and creating cherished moments with neighbors and their children.  However, his favorite thing was to be surrounded by family; he reveled in beach-side lunches, sunsets, throwing a fishing line in the bay, a good meal from the grill, and evenings on the front porch – that was a perfect day in his eyes! Paul's passion for the outdoors, astrology, and a love for animals, especially his beloved "Brody Boy," embodied who he was and defined his character.

While Paul battled personal demons after his mother's passing, he found strength and renewal in a church basement of fellowship.  One day at a time, that decision to enter the church marked the beginning of 17 years of sobriety on November 4th, 2023. Known affectionately as "Paulie Eyes," he supported, sponsored, and mentored countless others, creating long lasting and meaningful bonds of friendship.

Paul had two final wishes; one was to celebrate his daughter's wedding reception on January 20th, 2024, and the other was to see "blue water" one more time with Jill.  Both of these wishes were sadly unfulfilled due to the physical toll of his illness.

Paul is survived by the "love of his life" and domestic partner, Jill Gaspari, his daughter Arielle Rudolph-Milnarcik  (Jeff Milnarcik), his son, his brother Robert Rudolph, and his stepchildren with whom he lived for many years, Rachael, Chelsea, Nicolas, and Joseph Gaspari.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held at a date and location to be determined and will be announced so all those that loved him can gather together in remembrance. In lieu of flowers, and at the family's request, donations can be made to:  https://raiseyourway.donordrive.com/campaign/Paulie-Eyes-Rudolph  if you are able to specify the donation to go to duodenal adenocarcinoma, that would be preferred.

Alternatively, gastriccancer.org

Paul's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace and comfort dear Paul. You will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Memories and condolences may be shared @ancscremation.com