Richard Paul Trudell, known affectionately as “Dick,” was a man whose life was a testament to dedication, service, and love. His journey began in Burlington, Vermont, on February 27, 1946, where he was born to Edward and Theresa Trudell, a loving couple from South Burlington. Throughout his life, Dick touched the lives of many through his work, his passion for engineering, and his unwavering commitment to various organizations.
Educated in his local schools, Dick graduated from South Burlington High School in 1964. A standout athlete, he played football for SBHS and even earned a spot on the prestigious Vermont-New Hampshire Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl football team that same year. His pursuit of higher education led him to the University of Vermont, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering in 1969. During his time at UVM, Dick was a member of the Lambda Iota fraternity, serving as its president in his senior year. His academic excellence was recognized when he was inducted into Tau Beta Pi, the esteemed engineering honor society, on May 30, 1968.
Following his graduation, Dick embarked on a new chapter by enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Stationed in Vietnam, he served with the Navy Seabees Construction Battalion from 1970 to 1971, rising in rank from ensign to LTJG. It was during this time that he honed his engineering skills, laying the foundation for a remarkable career ahead.
In 1971, Dick married his college sweetheart, Kathryn “Kay” Mary Rock, marking the beginning of a beautiful partnership that lasted 53 years. Together, they ventured into the world of civil engineering, with Dick’s career taking off at the Vermont Agency of Transportation. His passion for the field led him to acquire Willis Engineering, which eventually became Trudell Consulting Engineers (TCE) in Williston, Vermont, in 1975. As the president and CEO of TCE, Dick oversaw a wide range of projects that left a lasting impact on the community, including developments like Tafts Corner, Thompson Point, and the Trapp Family Lodge.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dick was deeply involved in various organizations, reflecting his commitment to service and community. He was a proud member of Tau Beta Pi, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the American Water Works Association. His dedication extended to political and veterans’ groups, where he played an active role in advocating for causes he believed in.
In his personal life, Dick’s faith and values were the guiding forces that shaped his actions. A devout Christian, he and Kay were long-standing members of Community Bible Church, where Dick served as a deacon and church treasurer for over three decades. His faith was not confined to the walls of the church; it permeated every aspect of his life, influencing his involvement in charities, pro-life organizations, and community service.
As a testament to his unwavering commitment to others, Dick and Kay were members of the Community Emergency Response Teams in Grand Isle, Vermont, and North Fort Myers, Florida. His dedication to service extended to his involvement in the Vermont State Guard after the events of 9/11, where he rose to the rank of colonel. Through these roles, Dick embodied the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice.
Dick’s impact on those around him was profound, touching the lives of his family, friends, and colleagues. He is survived by his beloved wife Kay, his son Anthony Allen, and a host of nieces, nephews, and grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of service and love. As he bids farewell to this world, Dick leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
In honor of his memory, a memorial service will be held on March 8, 2025, at the Palmetto Mortuary in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Flowers and donations can be sent to various organizations that were close to Dick’s heart, including the Alzheimer’s Association, Aspire Now, and the Josh Pallotta Fund. As he is laid to rest in the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Dick’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
