Rudy Dean Draper, age 73 of Helper, Utah, passed away January 14, 2026, in a tragic fire at his home in Helper.

Rudy, the youngest of six children, was born on March 8, 1952, in Price Utah to Iva Olsen and Chauncey Draper. He graduated from Carbon High School Price, Utah. In life he made a career as a truck driver. He traveled to every state in the United States, including Alaska. On his journeys he enjoyed the rolling hills, large mountains, beautiful fields and vibrant sunsets. He met amazing people and always had a story to tell.

Rudy had a deep love for animals, almost never being seen without his faithful dog Tilly by his side. Rudy has a passion for woodworking and loved the outdoors. He was an active member of the Matt Warner 1900 EVC (Clampers). He was loved and will be dearly missed by all his friends and family members.

Rudy is survived by his three children, Ricky (Becky) Draper, Deyette (Brad) Forsythe and Jeanette (Nick) Haas; sister, Ruby (Lynn) Morrison; grandchildren, River Manzanares, Autumn Forsythe, Conner and Caitlyn Draper, Vivyan and Avery Heimer; great-grandchildren Riley, Rayla and Romey Manzanares; and many wonderful cousins, nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, 2:00 p.m., at Mitchell Funeral Home in Price, Utah where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Following the funeral there will be a celebration of life at Matt Warner 1900 Clamper Hall in Helper, Utah.

Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Rudy online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.