Rudy Riehl, Jr.

Rudy Riehl Jr., age 73, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 8, 2025. Born on January 5, 1952, in Galveston, Texas, he settled down in Santa Fe before making North Dallas his home. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and lifelong car enthusiast.

Early Life and Education

Rudy was the son of the late Rudy Riehl Sr. (d. 2002) and Juanita Riehl (née Mullinax, d. 2007). He attended Ball High School in Galveston, where his passion for automobiles first took root alongside his father’s influence at a local car dealership. Although he did not pursue formal degrees, Rudy’s hands-on expertise and love of learning fueled a successful career.

Career and Passion for Automobiles

From his earliest memories, Rudy adored anything with an engine. After high school, he channeled that enthusiasm into founding Rudy’s Used Cars. Customers knew him for his integrity, deep knowledge of every vehicle on the lot, and welcoming demeanor—qualities that grew his business and earned lifelong relationships. His greatest professional pride was watching first-time buyers drive away confident and happy in their purchases.

Personal Life and Character

Quiet and reserved by nature, Rudy revealed his quick wit once he felt at ease. He spent weekends tinkering under hoods, cheering on car races, and admiring the intricate lines of architectural designs. On his honeymoon, most couples choose beaches—Rudy chose a national car show. His son, Rudy III, recalls meeting a former customer on a job site far from home who insisted on sharing how Rudy Jr. had helped him find his very first car, a testament to the many lives he touched.

Family and Relationships

He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Riehl (née Welch), his parents, and his younger sister Becky Savoie (née Riehl, d. March 2022). Rudy is survived by:

       - Daughter Jamie McLaughlin (née Riehl) and son Rudy Riehl III

       - Grandchildren Corwin, Faith, and Tara McLaughlin, Rudy Riehl IV, and Madison Riehl

       - Older sister Kathleen Riehl

       - Younger sister Beth McGinnes (née Riehl)

       - Younger brother Tommy Riehl

A celebration of Rudy’s life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Thelma Webber Community Center, 14304 Beriton St., Santa Fe, TX 77517 at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your local homeless shelter to honor Rudy’s generous spirit and compassion for those in need.

Please share your favorite memories and stories as we gather to remember a man whose greatest joy was helping people find their perfect ride and whose presence warmed every room he entered.

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