2016 Interview with Welder, Bob Rudy

This fish signs is installed near Ten Mile Creek in West Bethlehem township. It was donated and created by local welder Bob Rudy of East Bethlehem Township. West Beth resident Lisa Scherer painted the sign and West Beth supervisor Duane Piatt installed it. 

In a huge 1900’s red bricking building that was once a power house and machine shop for the Vesta coal mine #5, is the shop of metal worker and welder specialist, Bob Rudy.  Rudy is the owner of Rudy’s Fabricating and Machine, a business specializing in robotic welding and heavy industrial repair. Rudy also creates decorative steel art pieces for the home and garden. And that’s how I met Bob, after seeing his steel fish sculptures along the Monongahela River I was interested in having him make a few pieces to enhance the natural landscape of West Beth Township-where I live. And ever since I have learned just how creative Bob Rudy is and the uniqueness of some of his designs. 

What are some of the decorative pieces you’ve done? 

I’ve done all kinds of different steel art, from holiday yard signs, themed fire rings, signs, nature-scene tables. I made a huge 2-ton red anchor that sits out on Route 88 near my shop-It’s a special piece to me because both my sons, Brian and Daniel helped design and weld it. 

What other type of other services do you offer?  

I also do iron construction, blacksmithing, steel and iron construction, structural iron construction, metal fabrication, and various other types of work.

What type of work did you do before you were a welder? 

I worked in the coal mine.  When Vesta #5 coal mine closed I decided to go into business for myself. I bought the building about 17 years ago when it was up for demolition.

How can someone find you if they want something made? 

My business is located in Vestaburg, Pa on Fishpot Run Dr. I welcome custom work and invite anyone to stop by and see my work.

Fish sign along Mon River in Fredericktown, Pa

Thank you Bob for letting us have a peek inside a welder’s life.  And thank you for the many steel art pieces you have displayed throughout Washington County, Pa. They will be appreciated for many years to come.