Rodney Bliss Rich

Rodney was born in Laconia, New Hampshire to George Raymond and June Elaine (Lewis) Rich on August 17, 1954. His childhood was spent living in Laconia then Cupertino, California before his family moved back to Nashua, New Hampshire. He often said, "I had a great childhood!"

After graduating from Nashua High School in 1972, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Rodney proudly served 20 years, first as a photographer then as a computer programmer, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant before his retirement. He spent the next twenty-seven years working as a software developer for the U.S. Navy.

Rodney will be remembered for his unwavering faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ, wonderful sense of humor, friendly nature and willingness to help anyone in need. He loved getting to know people, talking and sharing stories, making silly jokes and lengthy bantering conversations with his smart home speaker Ziggy. He enjoyed reading, listening to music and attending concerts, and working on his computer at home. He was very attached to his cats Moon, Char, and Mooch.

Four years ago, Rodney moved to Goodyear, Arizona to join his longtime friend, Patricia Palomino, whom he met in 1979 in the Azores when they were serving in the Air Force. They visited nearby places of interest as his health allowed, played SkipBo daily, and disagreed over who loved who "the mostest".

Rodney is survived by his six children with first wife Jeanne: Michelle Westgate; Sasha Rich and wife Elissa; Cynthia Graboski and husband Patrick; Nicole Rich; Amy Figueroa and husband Ed; and David Rich. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren; his sister Terrie Archambault and husband Dan; sister Debra Richardson and husband Les; brother Stephen Rich and wife Linda; several nieces, nephews, friends, and his loving companion Patricia Palomino. He is preceded in death by his parents, George R. and June E. (Lewis) Gates.

Graveside Services will take place for Rodney on Wednesday

September 30, 2026

11:30am

Cherokee Memorial Park

(Garden of Angels)

14165 Beckman Road

Lodi, CA 95240

Military Honors to be rendered