Rudy Alvstad, 92, of Stanley, ND, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck, ND.

Rudy was born on April 7, 1933, in Stave Township of Mountrail County, ND. He was the son of Ole and Guri Alvstad, and the youngest of 14 children. He walked to country school until it closed and then attended Blaisdell School until graduating from the eighth grade at the age of 14.

At the age of 14 Rudy started farming full time. When he was 22 years old Rudy met the love of his life, Ardyce Olson of Tolley, ND. Rudy and Ardyce were married on June 9, 1957, and together they farmed and ranched for 54 years. While farming, Rudy was also the Clerk of Stave Township for many years. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, and community. Rudy and Ardyce were blessed with three children: Donna, Randy, and Lori. They would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this summer.

Rudy loved to ride snowmobile, especially in the Big Horn Mountains, Yellowstone, Lake Metigoshe, and in the Black Hills. He was an avid card player, especially Pinochle and Whist! He was also great at bowling and horseshoes, where over the years he won many trophies and awards. Rudy spent countless hours playing sports with his children and he loved to attend all their events. He continued that passion while watching his grandchildren’s sporting events as well. Rudy also loved to take his children and grandchildren to horseshows, camping, and play dates.

He will be greatly missed by so many.

Rudy is survived by his beloved wife, Ardyce Alvstad of Stanley, ND; children, Donna (Richard) Sterkel of Rapid City, SD, Randy Alvstad of Berthold, ND, and Lori (Michael) Moore of Berthold, ND; grandchildren, Kendra Peck of Piedmont, SD, Kassie Reed of Rapid City, SD, Tyler Peck of Jersey City, NJ, Cade Moore (Rachelle Klein) of Bismarck, ND, Ryley (Clark) Doornbos of Berthold, ND, and Macey Moore of Minot, ND; great-grandchildren, Chayton Peterson, Azlyn Peterson, Cash Small, Logan Reed, Gavin Reed, Oaklyn Doornbos, Stetson Doornbos, and a great grandson on the way to Cade and Rachelle.

He is preceded in death by his parents; 13 siblings; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.