Paul Richard Rodocker

Dick was born in Lansing, Michigan on April 1, 1934. He graduated from Holt High School where he played basketball on the junior and varsity team. Dick later became a typesetter apprentice. After receiving certification, he worked at the Michigan State College Press followed by The Lansing State Journal and after moving to Florida, The Sarasota-Herald Tribune where he retired in 2001.

He was fond of music, clothing style, cars and movies from the 1950’s and 1960’s era. He said that time held happy and simple memories for him; however, he most enjoyed being with his family during holidays, birthdays and special celebration events.

Dick attended Bayside Community Church where his favorite chair was reserved just for him every Sunday, and where church friends and family lovingly referred to him as “The Mayor”. He was always greeted with a warm welcome and hugs.

Family meant everything to him and as he said on so many occasions are his greatest treasures in life. Anyone who ever met him felt an immediate attachment to his kind and gentle nature. He was loved by so many and was everyone’s dad and grandpa! With which he would respond “what’s not to love”? He had a great sense of humor too!

He is preceded in passing by his parents, Paul and Josephine Rodocker, sister Nancy (George) Whyte, and brothers Gary (Judy) Rodocker, and Ray (Sharon) Rodocker.

He is survived by as his children Deanna Gardner, Scott (Sandy) Rodocker, Angela (Craig) VanNortwick, Renee Rodocker-Nelson, 9 grandchildren, 5 great grand children, his brother Larry Rodocker, sister Marilyn (Bob) Pell, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Manasota Memorial Park, 1221 53rd Ave East, Bradenton, Florida 34203

June 20, 2026 from 4:00pm to 8:00 pm.