The family of Matthias Paul Rudnick shares with deep sorrow the unexpected passing of their beloved son on August 21, 2025, at the age of 22. Though his time was far too brief, Matthias left an enduring impact on everyone he met through his creativity, warmth, and zest for life.
A Life of Creativity and Passion
Born on January 7, 2003, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Matthias was the cherished son of Paul and Jennifer (King) Rudnick. Raised in Plover, he embraced life with curiosity and determination. He attended St. Paul Lutheran and Roosevelt Elementary Schools before moving on to Ben Franklin Jr. High and Stevens Point Area High School (SPASH), where he excelled both academically and artistically.
At SPASH, Matthias balanced his studies with athletics and the arts. He played football, competed in track and field, and was active in choir, jazz band, and theater. His talents shone in leading roles, including a standout performance in the school musical Mamma Mia. Beyond school, he earned a black belt at Catura’s Martial Arts, reflecting his discipline and perseverance. Matthias graduated as a proud member of the SPASH Class of 2021, leaving a legacy of energy, creativity, and community spirit.
Faith was central to Matthias’s life. He participated actively in St. Paul Lutheran Church and the Woodlands youth groups, often serving as an usher and performing in the praise band, using his musical gifts to uplift others.
Pursuing His Passion in Film
Following high school, Matthias attended the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, pursuing a degree in communication and film. A gifted storyteller, he graduated with honors in May 2025. Matthias’s passion extended beyond his own projects; he loved helping others bring their creative visions to life through cinematography. His adventurous spirit led him abroad to London, where he explored new cultures and expanded his artistic perspective. After graduation, Matthias began building a promising career in film production in Minneapolis.
A Life Lived Fully
Matthias’s interests were wide-ranging. He loved music, travel, and spending time with family and friends. He served his community through the 911 Memorial Restoration Group in 2017 and as a board member of Skyward, Inc. in Stevens Point. Known for his warm smile, generous hugs, and adventurous outlook, Matthias brought light and joy to every room he entered.
Family and Legacy
He is survived by his parents, Paul and Jennifer Rudnick of Plover; his sister, Katie (Josh) Ferguson of Stevens Point; his brother, Nathaniel (Kat) Rudnick of Stevens Point; and his maternal grandparents, Jim and Jean King of Plover. He is also survived by his aunt Julie (Gerard St. Hilaire) King of Custer; uncles Jerry (Abby) King of Plover and Don (Cheryl) Rudnick of Milwaukee; and four cousins. Matthias was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Martin and Bernice Rudnick of Milwaukee.
Services and Celebration of Life
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1919 Wyatt Avenue, Stevens Point. Visitation will take place on Friday, September 5, from 4:00–8:00 PM, and again on Saturday from 12:00 PM until the service. Burial will follow at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery.
Following the burial, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at Oso’s Brewery in Plover from 3:00–9:00 PM, honoring Matthias’s adventurous spirit, creativity, and the love he shared with all who knew him.