Search by Name

Search by Name

Vernon Roden Obituary

Roden, Vernon J., M.D. Sun. Sept. 20, 2009. Dear husband of Suzy Roden (nee Barrett); dear father of Missy Moreland; beloved grandfather of Cole and Payton. Dr. Roden was born and raised in Hamilton, Ohio, a graduate of University of Notre Dame and earned his medical degree at St. Louis University. He practiced pediatric medicine for 35 years with Suburban Pediatrics. Dr. Roden will be deeply missed by his many friends, associates and all the families he so cared about and helped. Services: A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be private. Those wishing may make a memorial contribution to a charity of your choice or one of Dr. Roden's favorites; St. Xavier High School, Cincinnati, OH, Nature Conservancy, Tibetan Aid Program, La Posada Providencia, Southern Poverty Law Center, St. Patrick's Center or American Cancer Society. Arrangements by BOPP Chapel. Online guest book at boppchapel.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Sep. 23, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Vernon Roden

Not sure what to say?





Wayne traube

October 21, 2020

He was my son's paediatrician quite a few years ago and was very polite and a great doctor.

October 23, 2009

Dear Suzy,
We were so shocked and saddened about the sudden passing of our favorite pediatrician. When I was looking for a recommendation for a pediatrician in St. Louis- his recommendation came very highly from one of the best mothers I knew - who was great at doing her homework. I knew he would be the best if this person sent her kids to see him. I was not disappointed. We have nine children who all loved going to see him...they especially loved the picture hanging on the wall of him getting a shot. My kids also loved all the toys and puppets in his office!! He was very calm and always took my concerns seriously...I appreciated that very much. We will miss his wonderful personality and his professional care for all our children. We feel blessed to have known him.
With deepest sympathy
The England Family- Debbie and Steve
Melanie, Sean, Mitchell, Riley, Sheila, Rianna, Collin, Garrett and John Paul

Rhonda Brewer/Uhlenbrock

October 23, 2009

Dear Mrs. Roden and family and the Suburban Pediatric Staff,...My entire family sends our love and sympathy. Dr. Roden was our pediatrician for 28 years!! He was our superhero!! My children absolutely loved him and felt so comfortable with him. Our love and prayers...The Uhlenbrock/Brewer Family

Maria Cohen

October 22, 2009

Dear Mrs Roden and the Suburban Pediatric Staff,
it is so hard to believe what I am reading... So sad, so sudden for all of us. Dr Roden was the pediatrician of our two boys for 9 years. My boys just wanted to go to him. Both love him and respected him tremendously! Dr Roden was not only our Pediatrician he was also our sons mentor. We will miss him!
Our sincere sympathy to all of you.
The Cohens

Laura, Deron, Alyssa & Kayla Bridick

October 20, 2009

We just found out today about Dr. Roden and were very shocked and saddened. He has been the best pediatrician for both my daughters the last 12 years and oh how we will miss him. We traveled from Granite City, IL to have him as their doctor since they were born and were glad we did. He was an excellent doctor with a wonderful personality who always offered the best advice. We fully trusted him with all our medical questions in regard to our children. We are so glad we were able to see him at their physicals this past June. Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family and all of the staff at Suburban Pediatrics.

October 20, 2009

I'm so sorry for Dr. Roden's family, and for my own family, he was my children's beloved Doctor for 13 years. They always looked forward to seeing him, we will miss him terribly. It is truly like a death of a dear family member. Dr. Roden's commen sense always calmed me down when I would be in a panic over ear infections, high fevers, and hospital stays. He always was patient and kind. I'm at a loss for any more words. He will be sorely missed.

Mary Swafford

October 20, 2009

We were shocked to hear of Dr. Roden's passing. He has been our pediatrician for 15 years. My 3 kids always got a kick out of him when he would see "Tigger" in their ears. Not only was he a great doctor but a great man as well. He was loved by many and will be missed.

October 19, 2009

Dear Mrs. Roden,
We were deeply saddened to hear of your family's loss. Dr. Roden treated our kids with such dignity and kindness with each visit to Suburban Pediatrics. His gentle nature was calming to our little ones and to any nervous parent. We will be keeping you and your family in our prayers.
Tara, Matthew, Jack, Rachel, and Tom Boland

October 16, 2009

Susie--I am so saddened by Jamie's death. He was so welcoming to me when I was a student at SLU. He had an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He inspired me and encouraged me to pursue advanced degrees. He made me feel that he had known me forever and that I was always welcome in his home...Hugs,David

Jane Hull

October 14, 2009

Dear Mrs.Roden and family:

Our family was so heartbroken to hear of your and every patient of Suburban Pediatrics's loss. We were caught off guard yesterday when I was bringing my 16 year old son for an appointment. Dr.Roden was even great with teenagers. He will be missed by all of us. I am happy to say the last time I saw him was in Queeny Park as he jogged by us on the trail.
Our prayers are with you.
Jane and Peter Hull
Megan, Ellen, Abby and Peter,jr

Jane Cookemboo

October 11, 2009

I was very sad to hear of Dr Roden's passing, He cared for my daughter who is 36yrs old. She was quite ill from birth and we met Dr at CGH. often at night when i wuld ome in room i would fin him there with my daughter just sitting and watching her, we ha many talks in the night and i always have said he saved my child as he has done so many. May God bless him and hold him tight, and I am sure he is because Dr roden held all of God's children close to his.

Leah K

October 7, 2009

Dr. Roden was my pediatrician for my whole childhood (i am now 28) as well as my siblings. I am now a pediatric RN, and saw Dr. Roden at the hospital sometimes. I remember he was a very personable doctor - he always saw cookie monster or ernie in our ears (when doing an ear exam) :) May God be with his family and comfort them at this diffucult time!

Jackie (Susina) Johnson

October 6, 2009

I would like to add my sympathy to both Dr. Roden's family and the staff at suburban pediatrics. Dr. Roden has taken care of my children for 15 years. I am so saddened by his passing. His kind advice and care had always been a blessing to my family. As I said, I feel as part of my children's village is gone. May the peace of the Lord be with you.
Jackie, mom of Emily, Nick and Sam

Ross Peeler

October 1, 2009

Suzy,
Though I never had the pleasure of meeting you and Vern, I talked to you both so many times during my stay at SLCH. Working at the After Hours service, I had the distinct duty of waking you guys up every few mornings to relay the overnight messages.

Vern always had me laughing with his dry sense of humor. He and I hit it off quite well and over the short time I worked there, we developed a nice relationship. I still have the hilarious notes that he sent me stashed away in my desk.

Feeling the void that his passing has left in my life only magnifies what you surely must feel. He was quite a friend, the consummate physician, a loving father and obviously a wonderful husband. Nothing can be spoken to take away the pain though I wish that there was. Please be strong and know that Vern was indeed a treasure.

Dionne Blackwell

October 1, 2009

Aunt Suzie, we want to thank you for sharing your husband Jamie with us, for making him be such an important part of our lives. Thank you to both of you for your love and for treating us like your very own children.
God allowed us to be blessed by Jamie in many ways and for that we are thankful. Thanks to Jamie for answering our questions when we had Loy. He understood how it can be for new parents. He reassured us that we were doing a great job and we did not have to worry, even before we had Loy. He always answered our calls, even when he was tired. We enjoyed all our conversations with both of you, we just wish we weren't so many miles apart.
We are saddened by the fact that he has left us so early, but we realise that God knows best and as hard as it is, we have to accept the fact that, it is time for Jamie to rest until Jesus comes. "Still trying to accept that his work on earth is done."
Jamie, has fought a good fight and has touched many lives and for that we are thankful.
Thank you and we love you.

We are really going to miss him.
Lewis, Dionne and Loy Blackwell

October 1, 2009

Dr. Roden cared for my 2 daughters- now 28 & 31! He was such a wonderful person who we saw only in the office at Suburban Ped. He always shared his travels with us which always gave us great joy! He told my girls that they were welcome to come in as long as they wanted. If they wanted to come in a back door, because they were to old, that was fine! They went to Dr. Roden while they were in college!
We send our prayers to the Roden Family- what a wonderful person, you were so blessed!
J.E.

Jane Lemp

September 29, 2009

I would like to express my sympathy to Dr. Roden's family and his family at Suburban Pediatrics. I met Dr. Roden 31 years ago, he was pediatrician to my three children until they were into their twenties, and just recently, was treating my new grandson. He was a great doctor, I never once questioned his judgement and always felt very secure with his decisions regarding my children. He was so subtle in his kindness. Years ago, my daughter had an emergency appendectomy in the middle of the night. The next morning when Dr. Roden was making his rounds he quietly came into her room and placed a little polar bear puzzle on her breakfast tray. She was so thrilled with that gift. We still have that puzzle. At different times in our family history, he helped me more than I am sure he even realized. I will keep your family and Dr. Roden in my prayers.

September 28, 2009

Lily, I am so sad for you and the loss of your dearest partner. Jamie will always be with you because his love was endless. Love, Helen

Michael Hurtado

September 26, 2009

Verno, I will never forget the weekend we spent at the NCAA tournament. We shared a lot of personal things on the ride there. For him to open up to me about his childhood,his father and times at Notre Dame really touched me. I was worthy of his trust and friendship. We spent countless hours at the kitchen table talking sports,politics and my time in the military. I will miss these time but will cherish every conversation we had. Another time I remember was a Christmas morning when Payton was born. He walked me to the scale with Payton in his arms turned to me and said "We did it". It was so special to me. Nonny I love you and am here for you. Missy, Cole, Payton and Gavin I love you. I will be a constant reminder to you all, the good memories and good times we had with Verno. I Love you Verno. Love Tank Commander.

Joan Koelling

September 26, 2009

Dear Suzy, That last posting fit so well, when i read it, It said everything that i wanted to say to you. God bless my friend. All my love

Joanie

September 26, 2009

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009

Ruby Ries

September 25, 2009

Our condolences to Dr Rodens Family,My 2 sons now in thier 20s how been seeing Dr R since 1985,they were never afaird to come to his office,We will truly miss him,Rember how he has touched so many childerns Lifes.

The RIES FAMILY

Nursery Nurses

September 25, 2009

Condolences to your family. Dr. Roden will be missed by his St. John's family. He was always such a joy to see in the morning. We are all so sorry for your loss.

Love,
The Nursery Nurses at St. John's

JoAnne Gutierrez

September 25, 2009

My condolences to Dr. Roden's family. He was my son's pediatrician, and both my son and I thought he was wonderful. We will truly miss him.

Audrain Jean

September 25, 2009

Dr. Roden will be missed very much by our family. He was my 2 son's pediatrician and continued to see them despite their ages until finally he told them... "don't you feel silly hanging around with all these little kids? It's time..." That was about 2 years ago. They are now 24 and 26. My oldest son found a way to continue to see him by having a child himself and "continueing the tradition" My grandbaby loved him as well. Rest with the angels my friend. We loved you.

Mike Gage

September 24, 2009

My heartfelt condolences to the Roden family. Dr. Roden has treated all of my children at one time or another during his practice at Suburban Pediatrics. He had a wonderful bedside manner. We will miss him.

Vanessa Hahn

September 24, 2009

I am so sorry for you loss, it was a great joy working with Dr. Roden, he was truly a great doctor and a great person, he will be missed very much.

Vanessa and Allesandra Hahn

Sheila Warren

September 24, 2009

I would like to express my sympathies to the Roden Family and the Suburban Pediatrics Family. Dr. Roden has been our pediatrician for 26 years. I knew at our first visit that I had made the right decision for my children and myself. I am honored to have had the pleasure of knowing him.

Suzy Roden

September 24, 2009

Suzy aka Lily, Nonny, Non
From the bottom of heart I can't tell you the comfort I am getting from all your kind words and sweet memories of my husband. Thank you so very much

September 24, 2009

Wonderful Dr. Roden, may you rest in peace. You will be so missed by so many. Thank you for being such an awesome part of our childrens' lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

The Schulte Family
Manchester, MO

Michelle Vaughn

September 24, 2009

Suzy,
Again, I am so sadded and sorry to hear about Dr. Roden's passing! He was a wonderful doctor and he will be greatly missed by my family.

I forgot to mention, in my posting yesterday, that Dr. Roden purchase your air purifier from me, so please feel free to contrac me is you have any questions or problems with it.

Please accept our condolences during your time of sorrow.

Michelle Vaughn
314-805-4126

Francesca Jendusa-Curcuru

September 24, 2009

Dr. Roden was a wonderful pediatrician who treated all five of the children in my family. His humor, professionalism, and warmth that he brought to his patients is to this day what comes to mind of him. Additionally, he was a generous mentor to my brother who is pursuing his medical degree. Please know that he and your family will be in all of our prayers. (Jan, Francesca, Michael, Laura, Danny & Meghan Jendusa)

September 24, 2009

Dear Suzy,
May you find comfort in the arms of family and friends. Vern was very special as you know. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sandy Tiefenbrun

Norma Fanara

September 23, 2009

We're saddened by the news. Dr. Roden was an important part of our family - our doctor, friend, and mentor for 18+ years. The world has lost a great man.

We'll remember him forever. Please accept our condolences.

Fran, Norma, Sam, and Tim Fanara

Michelle Vaughn

September 23, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Roden's passing, he will be missed by my family very much. He was my pediatrician and then my three childrens. His warmth and compasion with be missed greatly. Please know that your family will be in our prayers during your time of sadness.

Nancy & Ed McLean

September 23, 2009

Dr. Roden was a wonderful pediatrician. He was always such a great role model for his patients. Our boys always looked up to him with great respect. We will always remember his compassionate manner.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Denise & Raigan Gaddy

September 23, 2009

I was deeply saddened upon hearing of Dr. Roden's passing. He has been my daughters doctor since birth, helped her through horrible illnesses and has been a great mentor for my daughter through these 10 years. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends as well as those who came to love him as we did. He will forever be in our thoughts....

September 23, 2009

I love u Non!!

Melinda Gorman

September 23, 2009

Suzy,
Greg and I were so saddened to hear the news from Tina of Dr. Roden's passing. He was a wonderful friend, Doctor, and Boss. I have so many fond memories of him while working at Suburban Pediatrics. I know Colin and McKenna will miss him dearly. You, Missy and the kids will continue to be in our prayers. God Bless-
Greg, Melinda, Colin and McKenna Gorman

Laurie Copeland

September 23, 2009

We are heartsick by the news that Dr. Roden is no longer with us. Our three children were patients for over 19 years. I have so many memories of his extraordinary compassion for our family. He went out of his way many times to make sure that we were well taken care of and I can't imagine visiting the office without seeing him. We are so honored to have known him and we are so sorry for your loss.

September 23, 2009

Dear. Mrs. Roden & family,

Please accept our deepest condolences. We will never forget Dr. Roden. He was the best pediatrician around - warm, caring & supportive to all. You are in our thoughts & prayers.

Mr. & Mrs. James Riordan & family

Melissa S.

September 23, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Dr. Roden was my pediatrician when I was an infant (31 years ago) and my own boys have been cared for by him, as well. Dr. Roden was a wonderful man, I am so very sorry for your loss.

Ronnie Herman

September 23, 2009

Dr. Roden cared for my four children for the last 16 years. He and my son had cancer at the same time in 2001. Dr. Roden took time out of his recovery to call us and give us support during a very difficult time for our family. It bonded us together. We cannot tell you how much his support meant to us over the years. He was always there when we needed to bounce ideas off of him for Ethan's treatment and recovery. He will be sorely missed by all of us. I remember one of the many reasons we knew for a fact we had made no mistake in picking our children's pediatrician. We were at the hospital with our twins when they were born and we had other children at home. The hospital wanted to keep our babies there longer and Dr. Roden came in and said "These are not first time parents. Do whatever you have to do but these babies are going home today.". We left about 2 hours later with the babies. Rest in peace Dr Roden. We love you. Dave, Ronnie, Andrea, David, Will, Alex, Ethan, and Abby Herman

September 23, 2009

Dear Suzy,

Pat and I are deeply saddened when we heard about Vern from Marti. He is a good man, one of the best of the "good guys" You and Missy and the kids will be in our prayers.

Tim & Pat Denny

mary redman

September 23, 2009

Suzy,

You are in our thoughts and prayers. My best memory of Vern was actually the last time you, Dane and I shared dinner together. He was especially talkative, loved the whole plate of olives and cheese, was very happy and the two of you were so perfectly happy together. We love you and will miss him and you all as a wonderful, giving couple.

Showing 1 - 45 of 45 results

Make a Donation
in Vernon Roden's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Vernon Roden

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Vernon's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Vernon Roden's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more