WORCESTER — Rudolf J. "Rudy" Bollwein, 83, passed away unexpectedly on March 18, 2026, at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta.

He was born November 14, 1942, in Cologne, Germany, the son of Anton and Josefa (Drobez) Bollwein. As a young adult, Rudy moved from Austria to the United States. He was very proud of his Austrian heritage and eventually settled in Queens. He was married to Maria Juran for 21 years, and together they had their beloved daughter, Danielle.

Rudy owned and operated the 69th Street Beer and Soda Distributors in Maspeth, where he made lifelong friends. He was known for being loyal, kind, and giving, always willing to help those in need. He later purchased a second home in Worcester, where he eventually retired. An avid hunter, Rudy was also a member of the NRA.

He is survived by his daughter, Danielle Watkins; his siblings, Resi Drobez and Gunther Bollwein; his partner of 37 years, Alberta "Bert" McCoy; and her children, Pam McCoy, Carol McCoy, Dianna Doroski, Mary McCoy, Dulcie Lynk, Walter McCoy, and their families.

A service will be held at 2 p.m Sunday, March 22, at Heller & Skinner Funeral Home, 155 Main St., Worcester, with the Rev. Rus Underwood officiating.

There will be a celebration of life announced at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.hellerskinner.com.