Jason was born in Midland, Michigan, after a speedy delivery, the son of August Rudy, Jr. and Jeanie Marie (Bautell) Rudy. Jason and his sister, Shawn were raised in Gladwin, Michigan by August and Jeanie, and later lived in Concord, Michigan with Jeanie and their stepfather Chuck Shepherd.
As a young man in Concord, his B.S. Troop was a valuable support as he became an Eagle Scout. His singing voice in church when he was in grade school was strong and pure. He was a very private person, but well-known for his winning smile and generous heart. Jason was married from 2001-2003 to Laura Lynn Stallhood, and they had a son in 2001, Trey Austin Rudy.
Jason loved to work outdoors, and had a variety of jobs which allowed him to do so. The most recent job in Tucson allowed him to take photos of the mountain scenery, so he could proudly show people "the view from my office".