Judson University mourns the passing of Trustee Emeritus Rolf Grupp, who went to be with the Lord on March 24 in Minnesota at the age of 96. He was Judson’s oldest living Trustee. Rolf and his wife, Elaine, had been married for 68 years. Rolf required full nursing care since September 2022.
Rolf was one of Judson’s earlier members on the Board of Trustees, joining the Judson Board in 1972 and serving as trustee through May 2007. Rolf served Judson for over 34 years and was a member of the Development Committee, Personnel Committee, and various task forces and subcommittees. He also chaired the Development Committee beginning in 1977 for several years. Rolf became Trustee Emeritus in 2007.
Rolf was a faithful servant to the mission of Judson. Rolf and Elaine loved the school so much that they brought 34 students to matriculation. Their daughter, Bonnie Walker, is a 1983 alumna. They were founding members of the President’s Club and were members of the Adoniram Judson Heritage Society. Rolf and Elaine were active participants in the earliest campaigns for scholarships at Judson through to the current comprehensive Shaping Lives Campaign.
Rolf was described as a good listener who shared freely and enthusiastically. Judson Chancellor Dr. Jerry Cain remembers Rolf as the ultimate salesman. He was “solid” in the best sense of the word.
In honor of Rolf’s service to Judson, the American flag in the center of the campus is lowered to half-staff.
His Celebration of Life service will be held on April 3 at Constance Free Church, 16150 Crosstown Blvd NW, Andover, MN 55304. The visitation is at 10:00 a.m. followed by a service and lunch at 11:00 a.m. Cards and notes may be sent to Elaine Grupp through the President’s Office at Judson.