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Rudy Folkerts
Ready to Retire But Not Tired
fter a 40-year career in Christian education, Rudy
Folkerts is now embarking on a well-deserved retire-
ment, motivated not by weariness, but by a drive
to continue spreading joy through creativity, exploring the
wonders of creation, and reuniting with family. Far from
simply easing into retirement, Rudy's final days at Rehoboth
were marked by a flurry of activity. He beautified the cam-
pus and local art shows with student artwork, photographed
cherished moments at school events for the yearbook, and
eagerly brainstormed the future of yearbook classes. In his
never-ending desire to improve art instruction, he experi-
mented with discarded metal barrels to mimic the coloring
and glazing effects of pit-fire pottery, enthusiastically sharing
insights on the impact of elements like salt, seaweed, and
copper on color. Going above and beyond, Rudy offered to
build frames for donated artwork, orchestrated a student-led
mural painting at the Octavia Fellin Public library in Gal-
lup, and put together a senior class art show at graduation.
Throughout, Rudy remained
committed to his deep hope
that students should cultivate
their artistic talents, appreciate
God’s artistry in creation, and
convey truth through their art.
To an onlooker, it would have
been impossible to predict
that Rudy was on the brink of
retirement.
Rudy's eyes twinkle with
genuine delight as he recounts
tales from his years in the
classroom and on the field as
a coach. His unwavering goal
was to cultivate a sanctuary
within his classroom, a haven
where students could discover
peace, rejuvenation, and the freedom to delve into new skills
and ideas. Wayne Dykstra, the head of schools at Unity Chris-
tian in Orange City, Iowa and Rudy’s former superintendent,
aptly noted, "Rudy was known for thinking about the issues
we collectively faced with a unique perspective that caused all
to think more
deeply. Rudy
acted out his
love for others
by helping people. His actions and his art spoke louder than
his words. Students remember Mr. Folkerts as a teacher they
could talk to, often about the tougher issues.They felt he
listened to them.” It comes as no surprise that Rudy's class-
room was a constant hub of activity, with students gravitating
towards it at all hours of the day.
In addition to his substantial time in the classroom, Rudy
was equally at home in the maintenance shop and amidst na-
ture. A modern Renaissance man, his passions spanned a wide
spectrum—from the introduction of bamboo bikes in the
community to handcrafting bicycles from juniper trees and
constructing a plywood kayak. A devoted cyclist, Rudy and
his wife, Shirley, embarked on numerous bicycle trips, includ-
ing two remarkable 4,000-mile Sea-to-Sea journeys. His love
for the outdoors was reflected in weekends filled with hiking
and camping adventures. Rudy's thirst for exploration and
learning permeates every facet of his life and will continue in
retirement.
Rudy looks forward to a reunion with Shirley, who has
dedicated 27 years of service to Dordt University. The Folk-
erts' willingness to endure separation while Rudy taught at
Rehoboth Christian School stemmed from their love of and
commitment to the mission of Rehoboth. After navigating
three years of FaceTime calls and weekend travels, they have
decided that the time has come to be together in one place.
This decision allows Shirley to continue her work, while
enabling Rudy to bless his community through volunteer-
ing, substitute teaching, and pursuing his creative endeavors.
Together, they dream of camping, hiking, and biking adven-
tures throughout North America, as well as journeying to The
Netherlands to connect with numerous cousins and extend-
ed family members they have yet to meet. Rudy anticipates
establishing an art studio at home where he can paint and do
pottery. Thankfully, Rudy’s plans also include volunteering at
Rehoboth for a week each semester! Rudy Folkerts: retired,
but definitely not tired!
by Bob Ippel
Upper Right: High School Art
teacher, Rudy Folkerts and his
wife, Shirley, were honored
during the graduation ceremony.
Mr. Folkerts is planning to retire
after this school year.
Mr. Folkerts seems to be an
endless source of curiosity and
excitement which will continue
on in his next phase of life.