‘A true icon’ – sadness as renowned Kilkenny jeweller Rudolf passes after ‘a long illness, bravely borne’
Warm tributes have being paid to the legendary Kilkenny jeweller Rudolf Heltzel, who passed over the weekend after a long illness.
The Design and Crafts Council of Ireland expressed their sadness at Rudolf’s passing, describing him as “a gentleman and true icon of Irish design”.
They said on social media: “It is with a heavy heart we say farewell to Rudolf Heltzel, a gentleman and true icon of Irish design. Our heartfelt condolences to Eva, Chris, Julian, Rudolf’s extended family, colleagues and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
In his death notice, Rudolf’s family confirmed the master crasftsman died at St Luke’s General Hospital after “a long illness bravely borne”.
They added: “In keeping with current government guidelines regarding public gatherings, a private cremation will take place in the coming days and a celebration of Rudolf’s life will be held at a later date.
“The family would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their understanding and support at this difficult time.”
Rudolf Heltzel trained in Germany and Sweden before coming to Ireland where he was lead goldsmith at the Kilkenny Design Workshops. He later up his own business on Patrick Street in the city.
In recent years he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Kilkenny Chamber Business Awards in recognition of his huge contribution to the city.
