Rudolph W. Mayko was born on Feb. 25, 1918 in Boswell, Pa., the son of Joseph and Mary Mayko. He passed away on Feb. 16, 2011.

Rudy graduated from Penn State University with a degree in soil science. He enjoyed his career as a soil scientist for the Soil Conservation Service, and retired in 1979.

Rudy married Shirley Maitland in Snohomish in 1941 and had a wonderful family life, living in Pendleton, Ore. and Portland, Ore. before moving to Whidbey Island in 1980. They resided in the community of Ledgewood.

Shirley’s passing was in 1995.

Rudy was an avid reader and football fan, and enjoyed many years of gardening, crossword puzzles, tracking the weather, walking and hiking. In recent years, Rudy enjoyed traveling and sharing life experiences with his close companion Dolores Fresh.

Rudy was preceded in death by his son Maitland and daughter Maryann. He is survived by his sons, Mark (Patty), and grandchild Lily; Monty (Kathy), and grandchildren Zach, Sarah and Ben.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, concern and kindness shown to them during this time of bereavement.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 13 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 18341 Highway 525, Freeland. Memorial gifts may be made to the American Heart Association.