Rodney was born in Muncie to Frederick and Bessie Qualkinbush on November 27, 1934. He attended Central High School and went on to graduate from Indiana College of Mortuary Science. He attended Industry United Methodist Church where he married Joyce DeVinney on June 15, 1957. Rodney had an extensive working career in Muncie as he served as a funeral director for 20 years, County Coroner for 8 years and a Ball State employee for approximately 20 years. Rodney was a faithful member of the Masonic Lodge for more than 50 years, member of Ball State’s Association for Lifelong Learners for nearly 20 years, member of the Delaware County Historical Society and a volunteer for the E.B. and Betha C. Ball Center. Rodney served as the “honorary mayor” of Minnetrista’s Farmer’s Market, where he was often seen drinking coffee with his friends at the VIP table. The title was given to him as the “last official act” of the outgoing President/CEO, Betty Brewer.
Rodney was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Qualkinbush; his parents; siblings Edna Qualkinbush, Mildred Coffman, Ruth Broady, Vera Mullikin, Martha Smith, Robert Qualkinbush and Raymond Qualkinbush.
Rodney is survived by daughters Kristin LaPlante (husband John) and Kerin (Keri) Deck; granddaughters Adrienne and Ashleigh Deck, all of Indianapolis; and several nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2pm on September 14, 2026, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are by Elm Ridge Funeral Home and Memorial Park. Rev. Teri Crouse of High Street United Methodist Church will be officiating.
Memorials may be given to Delaware County Historical Society, American Diabetes Association, Muncie Masonic Lodge #46 or ARF Muncie. The family of Rodney Qualkinbush wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Morrison Woods for their care at the time of his death.
