Rodd Martin Parker

From an early age, he was active in church, where he gave his life to the Lord, and he carried that faith with him throughout his life. As a young child he also loved going to Christian church camp, a place that held lasting meaning for him. Rodd’s life reflected steady dedication and a strong work ethic, alongside a warm sense of humor that endeared him to many. In high school, he enjoyed playing trumpet in the band and served as captain of the soccer team. After graduating from Western High School in 1987, he attended Spring Arbor College for a year. He built a career in food service, beginning at the former A & W restaurant in Spring Arbor, Michigan then continuing at several eateries before becoming General Manager at Leeann Chin in Hudson, Wisconsin, a role he held for more than eight years. Whether at work or at home, Rodd brought energy and care to what he did, and he was deeply cherished by those who knew him best. Rodd enjoyed all outdoor sports and looked forward to playing bingo every Tuesday evenings with his friends in Minnesota. Rodd loved gardening and his friends would say he was VIP at the local greenhouses. He especially loved holidays, with Halloween being a favorite—decorating with 45 to 50 pumpkins of various sizes—and he was equally known for having more Christmas decorations than Bronner's.

Rodd is survived by his loving parents, John and Delores Parker; sister Rachel (Joe) Nastally; nephews Jacob Randall, Logan Randall, and Ethan Randall; niece Sierra Fortin; five great-nephews and one great niece; aunts Karen Powell and Linda Fairchild; and a host of cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, uncle Norman Fairchild, and niece Paige Randall.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Burden-Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home (1806 E. Michigan Avenue, Jackson, Michigan), with Pastor Brent Stille officiating, Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Burden-Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home, and again on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Rodd will be laid to rest at Spring Arbor Cemetery, Spring Arbor, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Baptist Children’s Home (BCH, Inc., 354 West Street STE.,1 Valparaiso, IN 46383-9989)