Richard “Rich” Waudby

Richard “Rich” Waudby, 69, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on November 30, 2025.

Rich was born in Cresco, Iowa, to Orren and Frieda Waudby. He graduated from Austin High School in Austin, Minnesota, in 1975, then earned an Associate’s degree from Austin Community College and a Bachelor’s degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. He later trained as a Respiratory Therapist and Cardiac Sonographer, and continued his education at the University of Missouri where he earned a Master’s degree in Health Informatics.
Most of Rich’s career was devoted to the health care field, where he was known for his dedication, warmth, and compassion.

On September 21, 1980, Rich married Carol Nelson. Together they built a loving family and welcomed their son, Adam.

Rich was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Waudby, and his sister, Susan Waudby.
He is survived by his wife, Carol; his son, Adam, and daughter-in-law, Laura; his beloved grandchildren, Netta and Espen; and his sister, Mary Waudby.

A funeral service will be held December 13, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 914 West Blvd. South, Columbia, Missouri, beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Those unable to attend may view the service via Zoom:
https://tinyurl.com/WaudbyFuneral
Meeting ID: 573 449 5674
Passcode: 65203

Memorial contributions may be made to:
• The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri
• Show Me Central Habitat for Humanity