Rody was born in Toledo, Ohio August 11, 1944, received his bachelors at Huntington University, married Kathy Cory August 30, 1969 and eventually would find himself traveling the world and impacting lives wherever he went. His life and career were dedicated to Christian ministry, including work in Youth for Christ for 20 years, Grace Bible Church for eight years, and International Needs for 17 years and upon retirement named president emeritus. No matter what role Rody played, his influence in ministry was marked by his ability to connect quickly and deeply with others, his creative and innovative ideas, and a sense of humor that never failed to bring much needed moments of joy. Rody himself was an easy laugh, often filling a room with his robust chuckle. Rody was committed to living authentically. He owned his struggles and was able to support others uniquely and genuinely due to this value. Rody also moved through life as a storyteller, captivating an individual or an auditorium of hundreds with stories of God’s work in the world. In addition to his love of Christ and passion for travel, Rody also loved music and was gifted with a beautiful tenor voice. And on top of all of this, Rody was a magician. He performed magic in numerous locations, including Northern Ireland, and this offered his children the gift of “family secrets." Rody’s remaining loves of ice cream, popcorn, and ham were never turned down, but he loved his wife, Kathy, the most. His four kids were a close second. His absence in our lives will be deeply felt.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Darryl Rodeheaver; mother, Goldie Mae Rodeheaver; father, Wilmer Ralph Rodeheaver. He is survived by wife of 54 years, Kathy Rodeheaver; sons Cory Rodeheaver and Joel (Lauren) Rodeheaver; daughters Abbey (John) Johnston and Laura (Adam) Rodeheaver-Van Gelder; and 13 grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, April 15, 2024 at First Evangelical Covenant Church, 1933 Tremont Blvd. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. The service can be viewed online: https://tinyurl.com/3dkf6zvy Lunch will be provided following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to International Needs Network. https://internationalneeds.us/stories/Rody
The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.
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