Anthony Joseph "A.J." Rudicel

INDIANAPOLIS – Anthony Joseph “A.J.” Rudicel, age 61, of Indianapolis, passed away Saturday, November 15th, 2025, at Community North Hospital after a long and brave battle with Esophageal Cancer. He was born in Indianapolis on August 9th, 1964, to Richard “Rudy” Rudicel and Phyllis (Reilly) Hartshorn. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1982. He married Kathleen “Kathy” (Christy) Rudicel on July 21st, 1991, in Indianapolis. A.J. was the owner of Badger Carpet Cleaning for over 35 years before his passing. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in New Palestine. A.J.’s love for IndyCar Racing was unmatched. He attended every Indy 500 since he was a young boy and went to many out of state races throughout the years. He was an avid fan of IU basketball and the Indianapolis Colts. He enjoyed watching other sports such as baseball and golf as well. He loved being outdoors, yes even yard work. He really enjoyed hanging out with his brother, good friends, and nephews at “The Farm” as they called it. A.J. truly loved life! He is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kathy” Rudicel; daughters, Rachel and Emily Rudicel; and siblings, Christopher (Mary) Rudicel, Sheila (Bill) Parsons, J.D. (Cindy) Hartshorn, Justin (Laura) Rudicel, and Margie Hoskins. His Aunt Loyal Toohig, a cousin, two second cousins, and many nieces and nephews. As well as great nieces, great nephews, and one great great niece. He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Jim Hartshorn; and brother, Bryan Rudicel. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 28th, 2025, from 10:00am until 12:00pm at Zion Lutheran Church, 6513 W. 300 S., New Palestine, IN 46163. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 12:00pm in the sanctuary. Pastor Jason Taylor will be officiating. A private family burial will follow. A.J. and his family ask that you talk to your doctor about your risk factors for Esophageal Cancer and help us make preventative measures a standard practice. Being the kind and caring soul that he was, he wanted to help end this very preventable disease. Memorial contributions may be made by mail to the Esophageal Cancer Action Network, P.O. Box 243, Stevenson, Maryland 21153, or by website at https://ecan.org/give-to-save-lives-2/. Envelopes will be available at the church. Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com. Arrangements are being handled by Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory in Greenfield.

Anthony Joseph "A.J." Rudicel

August 9, 1964 - November 15, 2025