Gerald Rodel

RODEL - Gerald “Jerry” James Rodel, age 76, passed away Tuesday, January 15, 2019. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maureen Ann Rodel; parents, Alois and Dorothy Rodel, infant brother, John Rodel; brother, Pete Rodel. Jerry is survived by his children, Tim (Deana) Rodel, Kim (Todd) Castle, Beth Rodel; grandchildren, Tim Rodel, Sarah Rodel, Jacob Rodel, Matt Castle, Brayden (Chelsea Costigan) Castle, Rachel (Jon Post) Castle; brothers, Don Rodel, Bernie (Eileen) Rodel, Bill (Sandy) Rodel, Fred (Mary) Rodel, Tom (Kathy Thompson) Rodel; sisters, Arlene Baumgartner, Jean (Tom) Mayer, Marge Mayer, Lori (Ron) Dargar, Julie (Kurt) Buntjer; brother and sisters-in-law, Jeanne Rodel, Bob Scheidel, Teresa DeFrece; close relative, Patricia Paffhausen; special friend and companion, Mari Weller, “The Warden”; his cat, “Kat”. Jerry grew up on a farm in Bird Island, Minnesota. He entered the Army after high school. Following discharge from the Army, he worked at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport where he met his wife, Maureen and then transferred to what is now Gerald R. Ford International Airport. From Ford Airport, Jerry began a 29 year career with Steelcase where he retired as a plant manager. His hobbies included farming, hunting, shooting, bowling, golfing, and playing cards. Jerry was active in the American Legion. This year began his 40th year of consecutive legion membership. He served 8 terms as Post Commander. Jerry was also very active at Our Lady of Consolation Parish while his kids attended school there. He most enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids. He was a friend to many and enjoyed his coffee club, legion buddies, breakfast and lunch groups and many social activities with friends often involving “tipping a few”. His family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM Saturday, January 19, 2019 at Rockford’s Sportmans’ Club, 11115 Northland Drive NE, Rockford concluding with military honors presented by the Kent County Veterans’ Honor Guard at 1:30. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Kent County Veterans’ Honor Guard or to Special Olympics. To share a photo, memory and sign the family’s online guestbook please visit www.stegengafuneralchapel.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gerald James Rodel please visit our Sympathy Store.