Evan "Rudy" Gabriel

A Celebration of Life for Evan "Rudy" Gabriel will be Saturday, July 11, 2020 beginning at 2:00 p.m. at 311 E 5th St, Morris, MN. In honor of Rudy's favorite color, we ask that you please wear something purple.

Evan David Gabriel was born on June 16, 1984, in Morris, Minnesota to Brenda Brustuen.  He was raised in Morris and was baptized and confirmed at Federated Church.  At a young age, he lovingly got the nickname “Roo” after the little kangaroo in Winnie-the-Pooh; “Roo” eventually became “Rudy” and it stuck.  Rudy received his education at Hancock High School, graduating with the class of 2003.  While in high school, Rudy worked with his aunt and uncle, Kathy and Jr. Nohl as a fabricator and later with Layne Cin.  That began his love for auto body and he pursued his education at the North Dakota State College of Science for Auto Body in Wahpeton, North Dakota.  In 2007, Rudy was involved in a car accident and suffered a traumatic brain injury.  He spent months in the hospital followed by a stay at a rehabilitation center.  He lived in a group home before moving home with his Mom for almost seven years.  Rudy spent almost 11 years working with the DAC.  For the last six years, Rudy has lived in group homes in Morris, where he has continued to live until the time of his death.

Rudy loved to have fun – he was a born trickster, referring to himself as “Tricker-Dude.”  He always came up with his own jokes and was stubborn!  Rudy was a flirt, he had the best smile and gave the best hugs!  He was extremely close to his family, he loved his Mommy, had a close relationship with his Grammy; loved his siblings and was an especially proud uncle!  Rudy knew everyone and everyone loved him.

Anyone who was lucky enough to know Rudy, would typically be blessed with the perfect nickname within minutes. He was such a genuine, loving soul, who brought joy and laughter into any situation. Spending time with Rudy was never dull, as he was always ready for adventure. Rudy would make sure everyone was having just as good a time as he was.

Rudy died on Monday, June 29, 2020 at the Stevens Community Medical Center in Morris; he was 36 years old.

Rudy is survived by his mother: Brenda Brustuen of Morris; siblings: Josh Bogenrief of Morris and Desire’ (Chris) Swanson of Hancock; grandmother: Gail Brustuen of Morris; nieces and nephews: Huxton, Rayne, Kieran, Cooper and Everleigh and many aunts, uncles and cousins.  He is preceded in death by his grandpa, Dave Brustuen; uncle, Bradley Brustuen; and his beloved Pomeranian, Tike.

Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of arrangements for Rudy.