Posted by Matthew Duffy on June 14, 2010:

Rudi Mizusawa was a devoted friend, brother and son. Since I returned to Hampton in 1997, I have had numerous opportunities to spend time with Rudi. In addition to having him over for an occasional dinner, he was my "go to" guy to fix anything which needed fixing around the house. As a home remodeler and renovator, Rudi excelled. It still brings me a modicum of joy to remember him each time I grill out on the deck that he built for me or as I climb the steps to my front or side door -- all wonderful additions that he personally built on our home. His workmanship was excellent and it was well-known across the community. Rudi spent the last three months of his life working tirelessly to help his brother, Bert, in his bid for the Republican nomination in Virginia's Second District. He helped get petition signatures, talked to voters while going door-to-door, and was singly responsible for putting up more 4' x 8' signs across the district than any other person. Initially he concentrated his efforts in Hampton and it is a true testament to Rudi that the efforts here resulted in a 61% share of the vote for Bert. With a couple more Rudi's, there is no doubt that Bert could have replicated what we did here and would have swept the district. Rudi had recently moved in to live with his aging parents to help take care of them. His selflessness and kindness remained at the fore, even in his final days. His loss was totally unexpected and can only be described as tragic -- both in its suddenness and in the helplessness which engulfed all of us who were by his side in the final hours. He leaves behind a beautiful daughter, Caitlin -- as bright a star as Rudi could ever imagine -- and a loving mix of family and friends. His time with us was far too brief, but I can feel his presence with me when I grill out on the deck he built and I know he will remain in our hearts for all time.

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