April 18, 1928 - May 1, 2009

Rudolf Engelbrecht of Urbana, Ill., formerly of Corvallis, died May 1 at the age of 81.

Rudi Engelbrecht's career exhibited professionalism and excellence in both industrial research and university teaching. At Bell Labs, he began by working in research teams and progressed to leading them in ground-breaking developments. Later, he held significant leadership positions at RCA Labs. His work in communications equipment and solid-state technology resulted in 17 U.S. patents, many with corresponding European equivalents. From 1979 to '95, he maintained a reputation as an excellent teacher in the department of electrical and computer engineering at Oregon State University, being acknowledged by an Outstanding EE Professor award. He is also renowned as a strong supporter of junior faculty through the Engelbrecht Young Faculty Award.

Rudi and Christel Engelbrecht were known in the community as supporters of the Greenbelt Land Trust, and donated funds used for the purchase of significant hillside property in north Corvallis.

Pre-deceased by his wife Christel and son Rolf, Rudi is survived by son Richard and daughter Erika and eight grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Benton Hospice Service of Corvallis or the Friendship Fund at Clark Lindsey Village in Urbana, Ill.