Alex Austin Ruud was born December 21st, 2004, the second of twin sons born to Jeff & Carmen (Redding) Ruud of Ross, ND. He joined big brothers Garrett, Jace and older-by-29-minutes twin, Logan.

Alex was baptized at Hjerdal Lutheran Church east of Voltaire, ND. His godparents are Elizabeth Colby, Maria Norbury and Ryan Redding.

He attended elementary school in Stanley, ND and would have been a junior this fall at Stanley High School. Alex tried basketball and football and then realized he was a runner. He ran Cross Country and Track and qualified for state. This year he set a personal record at State Track, while running his leg of the 1600 relay. Alex was a former 4H member participating in showing pigs, sheep, chickens, ducks and geese. Alex was a talented musician. He was a self-taught bassoonist, played the piano, drums and all of the saxophones. He attended International Music Camp at the Peace Gardens and made lifelong friends.

Alex was a hunter and had tagged three deer.

One of the activities that Alex truly enjoyed was participating as a member in good standing of the Rural Letter Carriers of ND, Juniors Program. He held various office positions such as President and Vice President. There were several activities he excelled in, including mentoring younger juniors during educational field trips, as well as, assisting in the Memorial Services during morning service at annual conferences held in different cities around North Dakota. Alex & Logan made lasting friendships that extended beyond this program. We are honored that he persisted in his membership status.

Alex appreciated his Scandinavian heritage and was working on collecting all of the flags and learning the languages. He knew a little bit of Norwegian, German, and Japanese and was beginning to learn sign language.

Alex was very smart and on the honor roll. He had a love for aircraft and knew everything about every airplane he saw. He could tell you the make, model and speed of any craft, as well as the seating configuration. Alex was an artist and loved to paint. He was thoughtful and loved to learn about new things. He enjoyed agronomy plants and flowers. His garden arrangements are gorgeous. He especially loved Lilies of the Valley.

Alex has aspired to many careers because he was interested in so many things. First a pilot, then a music director, next an astronomer and most recently an agronomist. He would have excelled in anything he set his mind to.

Alex had a couple loving nicknames including Alley Cat, AlBell and Little Stinker.

He was a soft spoken, gentle, funny, curious, amazing young man.

Alex passed away with his big brother Garrett on July 5, 2021.

Alex is survived by his parents, Jeff & Carmen; brother, Jace and twin, Logan. Grandparents: John & Clara Hauck, Steve & Karen Ruud, Budd Redding and Carmen Redding. Many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and lifetime friends also remain.