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Stephen Rodick Obituary
SOUTH BEND - Stephen M. Rodick, 57, passed away at 4:59 pm Tuesday, February 11, 2014, in Memorial Hospital. Steve was born on June 3, 1956, in South Bend, to Donald and Elizabeth (Reiter) Rodick. He was a graduate of LaSalle High School and Hillsdale College. Steve was the former career rushing leader at Hillsdale and 2nd team All-American. He also held many other athletic accomplishments at Hillsdale and LaSalle. Steve dedicated his life to young children and coached over 20 years in Douglas County, Georgia, and South Bend, with the values of Class, Dignity and Respect. Surviving are his parents, Donald "Dutch" Rodick and Betty Rodick, both of South Bend; daughter, Ashley (Jeff) Foster of Marietta, GA; two sons, Wesley Rodick of Pendleton, SC, and Taylor Rodick of Auburn, AL; a grandson, Cason; sister, Christine (Randy) Pullin of South Bend; three brothers, Greg (Julie) Rodick of Indianapolis, Doug (Kathy) Rodick and Joe Rodick, both of South Bend; numerous nieces and nephews; and girlfriend, Lori Lupresto of South Bend. Steve was preceded in death by two brothers, Donald "Dutch" Rodick II and Robert "Bird Dog" Rodick and a nephew Donald "Dutch" Rodick III. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am Saturday, February 15, 2014, in Holy Cross Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 Friday in the Zahoran Funeral Home, 1826 South Kemble Avenue. To leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.zahoran.com, or our facebook page, Zahoran Funeral Home.
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Rodick
Sponsored by His Loving Family.
December 16, 2014
Remember the footbal days at LaSalle. DAWS
March 11, 2014
To the Rodick family,
I cannot tell you how sad Steve's passing has made me. I can still see him and Birddog in the hallways of LaSalle.
The Rodick boys were standouts. Not only were they cute, but they were so very nice and unaffected. They were friends with everyone!
Whether it was baseball games, football games, parties at the Rodick house, my house or someone else's house, we always had a good time.
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that there are many, many people out there sharing in your sorrow. I pray that you find peace in your heart, knowing what good persons Steve, Birddog and Dutch were.
May the Rodick brothers watch over you as you continue your journey, knowing that you will see them again.
Shalom,
Bo
March 5, 2014
Doug, I have thought about you and your family so much over the past few weeks. I wanted to say some words that perhaps will help fill that hole in your heart, so here goes.... Growing up on the northside of South Bend was a magical time in the 60's/70's. Days stretched into early evenings playing dodge ball and kick the can. Summers were particularly wonderful with water fights, or going up to Monroe for a basketball/football/softball/baseball game.I was a total tomboy, and many times I was the only girl. My family life at home was crap, so I spent most of my days at the homes of my friends. I also loved to sing in the choir at both Monroe and Riley. There is no doubt in my mind that if I grew up on your side of town, I would have participated in the "We Singers" and been begging you and your brothers to allow me to play games with ya'll...P. S. I cannot believe how much Stephen looks like you...
Bill Chiles
March 3, 2014
I played football at Douglas County. Coach rode me hard about keeping my grades up. He was a a good man and will be missed.
chris hoover
February 27, 2014
It was a joy to play with steve for four years.I am so sorry.
Jeff ( chewey ) Ismay
February 27, 2014
RIP Ratso, may God Bless your Soul and family members. Your friendship was cherished by all Phelt Brothers and Sisters.
Keep Dr. Doom company in The Kingdom of Heaven.
Mark & Cathy Pearson
February 27, 2014
So saddened to hear of Steve's passing. He was a great guy, teammate and classmate at Hillsdale and will be remembered fondly by both of us. Our prayers are with all of you.
Mark & Cathy (Franco) Pearson
February 27, 2014
So sorry to hear of Steve's passing. Prayers are with all of you. He was a great guy, player and classmate at Hillsdale!
Mark and Cathy (Franco) Pearson
February 25, 2014
Prayers for peace and understanding are lifted up to the family and all that knew and loved Coach Rodick.
Steve and Kellie Gibson
Tom
February 24, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Andrew Kilgore
February 23, 2014
So sorry to hear of Coach Rodick's passing. He had such an intense passion for life but soft spoken on a personal level. Thank you for your fire, thank you for the memories, prayers for the family....
DCHS '97
Sandy Garbacz Scott
February 20, 2014
I just submitted an obituary for my mother, Mildred Rodick Garbacz, sister of Donald, "Dutch" Sr. and saw this obituary of a cousin I never knew. So sad. My condolences to the Rodick family and friends of Stephen.
Jim Boyles
February 20, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers to the entire family.
Debi (Toothman) Roberson
February 19, 2014
Good thoughts of him singing and playing with We Together Singers. I'll have to get a record playing and listen to my albums with remembrance.
Linda (Grenert) Hopkins-Laakso
February 16, 2014
To the entire Rodick family, my heartfelt sympathy. Steve was a class act, and it's apparent from the comments in this forum that he continued to be loved, admired and appreciated throughout his life. Those of us who grew up in 'the hood' became family of sorts with so many shared childhood experiences and memories... I hope that you find peace knowing that he is with his brothers in heaven. RIP Stevie
Ted Wansley
February 16, 2014
I always looked up to Steve. He just seemed to have the right balance of common sense, low-key sense of humor, and can-do attitude. I also thought of him as a good friend.
I pray for his family and I hope that Steve has found peace.
Kelly and Duane Dickensheets
February 16, 2014
Thinking of Stephen's family during this difficult time, especially Doug and Kathy. You are in my prayers.
February 16, 2014
My brother (Scott McIntyre) called to tell me of Steve (i cherish he knows me so well). The Rodick men, here and gone, are indeed God's gift to their family and friends. I sorely miss Dutch deep in my heart, and have meaningful memories of not just Dutch, but Bird Dog and Steve (and wasn't Doug there too!), singing with We Together Singers and playing softball at Keller Park. Dutch was my true friend and light of my life for many, many years, married or not. We shared so much quietly...his talk of his family and smile at all things difficult, his passion for living and loving...these are things that seem so inherent in the entire Rodick family. I love you all and wish you to know that you are in my thoughts in a humble way. I add my prayers to the tons of those whose lives have been touched by this very special family. I will keep you all in my heart until I join Dutch, Stevie and Bird Dog in heaven. Since we never know what will come, bittersweet memories will be the dreams of us left here to cherish our memories of them. I too would cherish a picture, and if I can wrest the albums from Tommy Gravenor -- he has both of the We Together Singer albums on which the boys were singing and playing guitar -- I will do my level best to get them to you. Please contact me at aquariangrasshopper@gmail. Thank you too Doug, for all your kindness at Dutch's funeral (the earring). All my love, Leigh Anne Robison
John Antonucci
February 15, 2014
Coach impacted me and the youth we served in more ways than he probably knew. He will be missed dearly. I hope he finds a way to work through all of us as we continue to do the work we do. RIP Coach
Bobbi Miller-Turnage
February 15, 2014
My Deepest Sympathies to the entire Rodick family. I knew Steve, and Bird Dog and Dutch from We Together Singers.
I'm so happy to know that he devoted his adult life to helping kids. He will be sorely missed.
Mike Shannon
February 15, 2014
My Heartfelt Condolences to the entire Rodick family. Although I didn't know Steve that well I feel for your loss. There's hardly a day that doesn't go by though that I don't think of my dear departed friend, Bird Dog. Especially when I hear an Eddie Money or Moody Blues song that I wish so badly that he was here and we could once again sing along together. It would mean so much to me if you could get in touch with me to catch up and most importantly if I could get a picture of Bird Dog to cherish for the rest of my life. Again, my condolences. [email protected]
Maggie Ginn
February 15, 2014
I have so many good memories of Coach Rodick at CHHS. Such sad news. Praying for comfort in the days ahead.
Joe Dolniak
February 15, 2014
Steve and I worked together for years and I fondly remember all the great talks we had about life, family and friendship. He made my day brighter every time we spoke. I will miss him an my deepest sympathy goes out to his family. Love ya coach !!! Godspeed my friend !
Woody Camp
February 15, 2014
Heartfelt thoughts and prayers to family and friends of Coach Rodick. DCHS Class of 1991.
February 15, 2014
Rest in Peace Steve.
Karen Clifford Hart
February 14, 2014
So sad to hear the Rodcik Family has to bear the loss of another great son. Will always remember all the boys singing. Such fond memories. Always faced life with a smile. So sorry for you all The Clifford Family
Betty Burnette
February 14, 2014
With my deepest sympathies. Steve coached my kids at Chhs.He was a great coach and a good friend. Thanks for being one of the good guys.
Katie Heavner Lambert
February 14, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with the Rodick family. Coach Rodick was an amazing influence on my days at DCHS.
Michael Brantley
February 14, 2014
May the family and friends of Steve take solace and comfort in knowing how he affected the lives of so many students and those who worked with him for the better. I taught with Steve at Douglas County High and was so impressed with his abilities and ebullient spirit. He was a force of nature and will be missed.
David/Kathy Martin
February 14, 2014
Our sympathy to the Rodick family. May you find peace in your wonderful memories with Steve. He was always one of my favorite teaches and coaches at DCHS.
Stephanie Dunson
February 14, 2014
My condolences to the Rodick family. Coach Rodick was a very good and inspiring man to my son. He coached him for four years at CHHS in Douglas County. May the Lord give you his unmeasurable peace that you can depend on.
pete sapienza
February 14, 2014
My thoughts and prayers for you and your family. Steve I hope you are at peace, I will always remember you and the good times we had and the effect of knowing you had on my life, rip my brother.
Mike Bell
February 14, 2014
My condolences to the Rodick family on the loss of Steve. I was a teammate of Steve's at Hillsdale and have many fond memories of him. May he rest in peace with the saints and angels.
February 14, 2014
Our condolences to you, Doug and to your entire family. May your brother rest in peace beside your other brothers and with our Lord. Liz & Jim
Karen (Kurz) Kagarise
February 14, 2014
Growing up on Brookfield Street was ideal in many ways. We weren't "rich" in $$$ but we were a family that spanned that whole block. The Rodicks, the Sovinskis, the Kurzes, and more. OH! the sweet memories...and some not so sweet hahaha. Love you! Steve will get to hang out with my brother Steve again..and Dutchy! Look out!!! Love to you, in this difficult time. He certainly made his mark in this world.
February 14, 2014
We are both so deeply sorry for your loss. We know Steve from Church and cursillo. He was such a kind and caring person. The Rodick family are in our prayers. May God ease your pain.
Tom and Paula Sulentic
Pati Grembowicz Banik
February 14, 2014
You didn't grow up at Holy Cross and LaSalle with out loving the Rodick's. God Bless Steve and family, may he rest in Peace
Carol Derucki
February 14, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I worked with "Coach" at The Children's Campus. He touched many young lives and we shared lots of laughs in a job that could be stressful. He will be missed.
Jerry Hoffman Family
February 14, 2014
It's very sad to learn of Steve's passing. We had alot of laughs on and off the field of play. Many good times and memories with Steve in Little League, grade and high school and after. Our most sincere and heart felt condolences to Doug and the entire Rodick family.
Jill Godwin
February 14, 2014
Heartbroken would be such an understatement as to the news of the passing of such a wonderful man. So many wonderful memories growing up with his children. We are all lucky that God shared Steve with us as long as he did. Ashley, Wes and TC please know that you guys and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers through this hard time. Keep your head up, you have a very special angel shining down on you.
Richard Behnke
February 14, 2014
I worked with Stephen at The Childrens' Campus and he worked great with kids. I am sorry for your loss. Your family are in my prayers.
Harold Stevens
February 14, 2014
Steve thank you for the friendship and many conversations we had in college. It was a pleasure to be your team mate and to experience the things we did. RIP my friend you will be missed. God bless your family and make them strong.
Harold stevens
Ann Miller (Wolz)
February 14, 2014
My sympathy goes out to the whole Rodick family. I've known Steve and his family for years as we went through grade school, high school, and were in We Together Singers. He was always a good friend and will be greatly missed. May the lord be with the family at this time and help all who knew Steve to remember the good times that they shared with him.
Dawn Rajski
February 14, 2014
RIP Steve you were a good guy for the short time I got to know you and your family you all have a special place in my heart always! God Bless
Ginny Hubbell Anderson
February 14, 2014
I will always remember Steve for his kindness and great smile. He was a dear friend while at Douglas County H,.S. He will be missed. My prayers are with you Betty and the rest of Steve's family.
Randy Spriggs
February 13, 2014
My deepest condolences to the family. Steve was a good friend.I will never forget his larger than life persona,his booming voice and caring nature for everyone he touched.RIP Steve.
Sharon McBride
February 13, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to family. Sharon McBride
Diane Kovach
February 13, 2014
Condolences to a very special person and family.
Greg & Barb Humnicky
February 13, 2014
Rest in peace my friend. We shall cherish the memories of him forever. He played for me at Central before he went to LaSalle HS where he left a great legacy. I had a chance to meet him again and renew our friendship after he returned to South Bend from Georgia a few years ago. Our thoughts and prayers to his family in these difficult times.
Betty Smith Monhaut Ledsome
February 13, 2014
To Greg and your family--I am so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Tracy Bergman
February 13, 2014
Steve "Mr. Rodick", was the boys coach at Clay Middle School when I first met him. Such a handsome, approachable man. He always had a stearn way of keeping the kids in line and a big smile and wink right behind it. I had the chance to become good friends with Steve through the years. He had many many friends and loved ones. I will miss you Steve. Love you
(((Tracy Bergman)))
Christi Mccarey
February 13, 2014
Prayers to family and friends of Rodick. I had the pleasure of working with him and learning quickly the positive impact he had on many. He was a genuinely nice individual.
Julie
February 13, 2014
You've climbed that mountain, we'll see you on the other side. Rest in peace my friend...
David Hayes
February 13, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to Coach's family. Truly enjoyed his friendship, you will be missed greatly.
Stephanie Shashaguay
February 13, 2014
Stephen is my namesake. He was great friends with my parents at Hillsdale and I remember playing with his children years ago. He will be missed by many! My prayers are with his children in these difficult times.
Annette & Charlie Branson
February 13, 2014
Our family is so sad to hear of Steve's passing. He had a positive and powerful impact on all four of my children when they were in high school and my husband and I always appreciated his work and dedication to also spend time supporting and participating with the athletic booster clubs. We've missed him and want to express our sincere sympathy to all of his family and loved ones.
Chrissy (Rodick) Pullin
February 13, 2014
Thank you for your posts. We are reading every one of them. God bless you all.
Kirk Forster
February 13, 2014
Sorry to hear the sad news. I remember playing Babe Ruth baseball with Steve over 40 years ago. He was always one of my favorite teammates and I have thought of him often over the years. Peace to the family.
Sue Anduze
February 13, 2014
So sorry to hear of Steve's passing. Prayers for all the family..
February 13, 2014
It was always the Rodick boys against everybody else on the sandlot football and baseball games. So sad to hear about Steve's passing, their team gets smaller yet again. Our thoughts and prayers for the Rodick family. Jeff St. Clair and family.
February 13, 2014
i am lost for words, Steve coached my son at Chapel Hill High School, my son worshiped him, our prayers go out to all that loved him~
David Magley
February 13, 2014
Wishing the family peace & great memories, a very special young man is no longer with us to impact our lives & make us smile
Michael "Jake" Jacobs
February 13, 2014
Peace in Heaven. My condolence to the Rodick Family.
Sheila Fell (Smith)
February 13, 2014
Chris, you and your family are in my prayers. I didn't know Steve, but met him when he was teaching or coaching at LaSalle. Hope you're able to cope quietly and then begin to heal. Sincerely,
Jeanne shashaguy Kuipers Kuipers
February 13, 2014
You were loved by so many! I will miss you very day!
Teresa & Mick Condon
February 13, 2014
We were blessed to have many years of a close friendship with Steve and his family. He was a great man. dad, and friend and we will miss him. May God bring some peace to his family at this sorrowful time.
Tim Switalski
February 13, 2014
My wife Teri and I share our condolences on Stephen's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family!
February 13, 2014
Alway in are hearts
Paul Medich
February 13, 2014
I'm so sorry, my thoughts are with the family..
February 13, 2014
Our hearts are heavy in the passing of Steve and we are thinking of the whole family and our prayers and sympathy are sent to you.
Caroline & William Clark
Pete Waite
February 13, 2014
The Waite family's thoughts and prayers are with the entire Rodick family. I will always remember the great fun times growing up with Steve at Holy Cross and LaSalle as well on the football field from 6th grade through high school. God Bless you all.
Richard & Vicki Albright
February 13, 2014
I grew up with the Rodick's, and went to school with Steve. He was truly one of the good guy's. My sympathy to the family.
Jessica Coleman
February 13, 2014
Christine & Family, you are in our thoughts, prayers, and hearts. So sorry for your loss.
Love, Jess Coleman & Family
Steve Rentschler
February 13, 2014
It was great to spend time with Steve in Hillsdale in October 2012 at the football reunion. I really enjoyed catching up. He was great Charger! Godspeed # 28.
February 13, 2014
Our Love & Prayers are with the Rodick family & his dear Mom. (((Tom & Myra Bergman)))
Jeanne Shashaguay Kuipers
February 13, 2014
I watched Steve play ball for years never missed a practice he was a best bubby to my husband Paul at the time we shared dinners pizza nights and A tone of laughs, dancing, playing with Adam, He will be missed. I am very sad to get this news. My sympathy's To Steve's family and children.
Vicky Kovacs-Teeter
February 13, 2014
So sorry about the loss of another dear child in this family. My thoughts are with the family...
February 13, 2014
Family and loved ones are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult of times. Another bright light extinguished far too early. Please carry only the good memories with you to comfort you in your time of bereavement. God bless you all.
Brenda Nixon
February 13, 2014
Stevie was the sweetest, most supportive and encouraging person I have ever known. No one was ever a stranger. Always an ear for others' problems. Another Lion sleeps tonight. Thoughts and prayers to all of the family. Heaven has received an AWESOME addition!
Kurt and Chris Stein and family
February 13, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. Your families are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dale Strzelecki
February 13, 2014
Rest in Peace, Steve...
February 13, 2014
God Bless. I will always remember the fun we all had in gym class at Clay High.
Lou Greenwalt, Class of 85
Marcoantonio Arellano
February 13, 2014
sincerest sympathy on the loss of your brother, son, father, uncle and friend.
he had quite an impact on so many. he will be greatly missed
your friends, Marco and Roberta
Steve Graham
February 13, 2014
Condolences to the family. My kids were influenced by Steve at Douglas County High School. They always felt he was a good man and a fabulous coach. I got to know Steve through youth baseball in the county. We will miss Steve!
Steve Graham and family
Patty Lord, Gaddard
February 13, 2014
My thoughts and preyers to the Rodick family, rest in peace Stevie with your brother's....
Christopher Doyle
February 13, 2014
Steve was a great Charger teammate and a better man. I was saddened to learn of his passing and wish the entire Rodick family, my deepest condolences.
Kelley King
February 13, 2014
God Bless. I will always remember the great things you have done for the children in our community. Miss working with you.
February 13, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Rodick family. Marlah Murray
Debbie LaPine
February 13, 2014
So sad and sorry for your loss. Steve was such a great person, he will live on in our memories. Prayers for his entire family during this difficult time. Special hug to my friend Chrissy.
Debbie Haab LaPine
Portage, MI
Dave Garwood
February 13, 2014
I first met Steve after he made Cursillo #80 in South Bend about eight years ago. Two years later, we worked together on a Cursillo team #82. He was a good guy to be around, his talents will be missed as well as his casual wit. My prayers go out to all of Steve's family.
The Ryan Family
February 13, 2014
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss.
Chris & Allison Ryan
Ric Coleman
February 13, 2014
DVery sorry to hear of the passing of Stevie. He was always a good person to be around. May God Bless the the Rodick family.
Kevin and Nancy Bikowski
February 13, 2014
There are so many good memories of Steve, especially from back in the day at St. Anthony's. We are so sorry to hear of his passing and want the entire Rodick family to know how very sorry we are. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very very sad time.
February 13, 2014
Our sincere sympathies to the Rodick family.RIP Stevie.
John & Renee Cook
February 13, 2014
My kids and I will always love and cherish our memories of uncle Steve...prayers of healing and peace go to the Rodick family. Kay, Annie and Nick
ALAN KOWALEWSKI
February 13, 2014
GREAT GUY TO BE AROUND IN THE OLD SOFTBALL DAYS... GREAT TEAM MATE WHO ENJOYED THE GOOD TIMES DOWN AT THE CLUB!
Richard Rains
February 13, 2014
So sorry to hear. Prayers for Steve's family.
February 13, 2014
Ahh, Stevie! What a great guy. The song is love.
Prayers for the Rodick family especially Greg and Doug.
Kay
February 13, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sorrow.David Barryessa
Diane O'Neal Ingram
February 13, 2014
you will always be know as Coach we will miss you.
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