Roderick Alan PHILIPSEN

Thinking of you my friend ... The physical distance, which separates us is great, but that unshakable bond holding us together in friendship, reminds me, that we will never be far apart, in spirit!

The family would like to thank all of the relatives and friends who supported us with their love, compassion, caring, and kindness over the past two very difficult years.
It still seems unimaginable that Rod won't walk through the door and fill our home with his exuberant presence and love.
Although he is gone forever he will always be in the forefront of our hearts, thoughts and lives.
Our love for you Rod, is eternal.

Remembering you Rod with fond memories as we approach the second anniversary of your sudden departure.
Spending as much time with Carolyn as possible, she is a trooper.
Missing you, may you continue to be a free flying spirit. RIP, love Heather

Roderick Philipsen and the Danish Connection

Rod and I share the same great-grandfather, but since he lived in B.C. and I in Denmark, we had not spent much time together. None-the-less, Rod has had an influence on my superannuated years which is far greater than this might indicate.

On the fatal 16th September 2011, when Rod crashed, I was actually engaged in making a video specifically for Rod. I had gone to Denmark's Technical Museum in Elsinore where they have a large collection of historic airplanes. I choose this setting to show Rod what had resulted from an email he sent about a year earlier about a rather weird new invention: the YikeBike. I share with Rod a passion for flying and technical contraptions. So I wanted to show him that I actually got one - including the dealership for Denmark. So circling among these airplanes was to be a sort of fusion of our common interests. Was that a case of telepathy?

On my first visit to Canada in 1996 Rod took me in his Cherokee above Vancouver Island together with his sister Karen and her son David, and let me take control of the stick for a few minutes a lifelong dream of a boy who grew up 1 km from Denmark's largest Military airfield.

But somehow there was more than just these common interests that seemed to create an immediate, unconscious concord between Rod and me, I think it has to do with our common genes.

Our great-grandfather, Sophus Philipsen, was one of 7 gifted brothers in a wealthy Jewish family in Copenhagen. Their large home was very hospitable, and among visitors and friends were artists, authors and prominent citizens. Sophus was adventurous and became a sea captain and had his own schooner, which took him and members of his family to the seven seas. Among them his twin brother Theodor, who became a great Danish painter who introduced French impressionism to Denmark. Sophus took Theodor to London, Paris, North Africa, Rome, Java and the Danish West Indies, where incidentally his nephew Christian Philipsen, my grandfather, later became the Royal Danish "Property Inspector" until the islands (now called the Virgin Islands) were sold to the USA in 1913.

This is to give a short genetic background for the adventurous, exploratory and creative side of Rod.

Rod was a man of action, and his creativity took a practical turn, but no doubt, his inherent curiosity, creativity and adventurousness were the qualities that also made him a businessman. Incidentally, I am also aware that these qualites were certainly also - and perhaps even more - a genetic heritage from Rod's mother.

I first met Rod, when visiting his father Arnold and his sister Karen in 1996. I recorded a long and extremely interesting interview with his father, Arnold. Rod and Karen got copies of it. He related the most fantastic experiences during the War and after. It ought to be "required listening" for furture generations of the Philipsen clan in Canada and Denmark. Again adventurousness, determination, idealism, daring, initiative and leadership are the characteristics Rod inherited - from both parents.

Rod and I also shared a sense of humor and exchanged jokes on my email. Again family genes? Holger Philipsen, my uncle, was a professional humorist and author of several comic strips in Danish papers.

Rod's generosity was certainly evident when I visited Karen, Erin and Graham with 2 grandsons. One unforgettable memory was when we met in Lake Louise - and we all had fun skating on the world's most beautiful lake.

The relatively short time that I have spent with Rod and his family, with Karen, Erin and Graham have generated such a wealth of legendary stories, all fantastic, but true - because these people are truly out of this world. They will be integral parts in the history of the Philipsens - and Lilian and I sincerely hope that despite the demise of Rod, coming generations here and there will keep and develop the family ties.

My remembrance of Rod has reached a strange semipermanent spirituality. He comes to mind with a regularity that is both frightening and reassuring. I cannot forget this man, and all that his friendship has meant to me since I first met him so many years ago. The many adventures we had together are often replayed like a slide show across the silver screen of my mind. I believe it is inevitable that those who of us who are still mobile on this earth have a duty to remember those very dear friends who have moved on to a better place.
When I drive the Sea to Sky highway, he is navigating from the right hand seat; when I soar at 35,000 feet heading south to the tropics to escape the northern winter, he is looking in the window from the wing; when I sit late at night with a glass of wine by the fireplace, I hear his knowing chuckle over my shoulder; and when I am rummaging through my tool box, his hand guides mine as he did so many times in the past when we rebuilt cars together. I grew to love him then, and I love him still. I can't help it. His spirit it too strong to ignore.

What I remember about Rod was that he was not a guy to sit still for very long. He always had something going on, no maybe several things, businesses, going on - at the same time! He once said to me that he admired me because we had a business running for some twenty years. Well, I admired Rod for his ability to make things happen. He was passionate about everything he pursued.

We would head up to Rod and Carolyn's home in Winfield in the summer. Rod would have the boat in the water ready to take us on a white knuckle trip up the lake. He loved to go fast. The barbeque would be on in the evening. Rod was a very ingenious guy. I remember this cannon he pulls out one beautiful July evening. I think it's called a potato gun. Long piece of PVC pipe with a shot of hairspray for the ignition and BANG, out comes a potato on it's way to the lake. Funniest thing I have ever seen. I even drew a diagram of the potato gun but I doubt if I'll ever make one. I would need Rod to do that. We all miss you Rod. Hope to see you again someday, on the flip side maybe?

A mention from Linda. We all enjoyed our family summer vacations coming up to see Carolyn, Rod, Christian and Nicky when our boys were younger and growing up. Carolyn and Rod and the boys made us feel so welcome. Rod had that genuine smile and that twinkle in his eyes and he laughed easily...he just found humor in so many things. I enjoyed his company. On more than one family occasion at our home visiting, I was so impressed with Rod's lengthy conversations he would have with Christian or Nicolas, while sitting on our couch...he was a very attentive father. Christian and Nicolas would hang on his every word...they new they were loved. As an observer, I felt very warmed to see Rod's loving heart that he showed towards his boys. Rod adored Carolyn, his "Blondie" . I will miss your chuckle Rod. See ya one day for sure. From your sister-in-law, Linda.

Our son Daniel wanted to say that what stood out in his memory was that Rod showed him how to shoot a rifle one summer! It was a very huge memory for Daniel, one that he will always remember. Justin said that Rod always had great ideas, that Rod was a strong, tough, good man and a good father. He said it was sad and just wasn't fair that Rod had to leave his family so soon.

Our family will miss Rod, his interesting stories, his humour and his kindness.

Linda, Malcolm, Daniel and Justin.
xoxoxoxo

What I remember about Rod was that he was a guy who would not sit still for very long. He always had something going on, no maybe several things, businesses, going on - at the same time! He once said to me that he admired me because we had a business that kept on going. Well, I admired Rod for his ability to make things happen. He was always passionate about any project that he was pursing.

We would head up to Rod and Carolyn's home in Winfield in the summer. Rod would have the boat in the water ready to make a white knuckle ride up the lake ! He loved to go fast ! Carolyn would have the barbeque on in the evening. Rod was very ingenious. I remember this cannon he made one July, I think it's called a potato gun. Long piece of PVC pipe with a shot of hairspray for the ignition and BANG, out comes the potato on it's way to the lake. Funniest thing I've ever seen. I even drew a diagram of the gun but I doubt that I will ever make one. I would need Rod to do that. We all miss you Rod. Hope to see you again someday, on the flip side maybe ?

A mention from Linda. We all enjoyed our family summer vacations coming up to see Carolyn, Rod, Christian and Nicky when our boys were younger and growing up. Carolyn and Rod and the boys made us feel so welcome. Rod had that genuine smile and that twinkle in his eyes and he laughed easily...he just found humor in so many things. I enjoyed his company. On more than one family occasion at our home visiting, I was so impressed with Rod's lengthy conversations he would often have with Christian or Nicolas, while sitting on our couch...he was a very attentive father. Christian and Nicolas hung on his every word...they knew they were loved. As an observer, I felt very warmed to see Rod's loving heart that he showed towards his boys. Rod adored Carolyn, his "Blondie" . I will miss your chuckle Rod. See ya one day for sure. From your sister-in-law Linda.

Our son Daniel wanted to say that what stood out in his memory was that Rod showed him how to shoot a rifle one summer! It was a very huge memory for Daniel one that he will always remember. Justin said that Rod always had great ideas, that Rod was a strong, tough, good man and a good father. He said it was sad and just not fair that Rod had to leave his family so soon.

Our family will miss Rod, his interesting stories, humor and his kindness.

Linda, Malcolm, Daniel and Justin
xoxoxox

A lasting imprint Rod has left on me and my daughters, a man bigger than life itself, always wanting to share his passion for the exciting sides of life, the first time we all went to their home, he took us for a flight in his helicopter through Cougar Canyon, a day to remember as he charted every turn and curve with expert precision, we were not afraid, we were exhilarated by the sheer excitement of it all, translucent floor board so we could see the earth below, we felt safe because it was Rod .He had a way of making everything fun.
Another time he and Carolyn picked me up at the Pitt Airport, he flew us to an Island for lunch, flying at low altitude with the gulls and other salt water fowl. Had me home in time to pick up the kids at School, what a great day.
Yet another time Rod and Christian took me up in their Sessna, only to play around with the law of gravity, we were all floating off our seats, hollering and screaming with glee.
Oh so sad that Rod was taken so soon, his life is a bookmark in so many lives, a gentle force to be reckoned.
He shared his passions and experience with grace and style, whenever I look to the skies I think of Rod, whenever I hear the sound of a chopper I think of Rod. I will never ever forget those great experiences with the whole family. One night he flew Carolyn and I into Judy's back yard in his helicopter, who does that??
Rod did all that and more. I did get the opportunity to thank him for the incredibly fun times.
A heart of gold and generous to a fault I will forever be grateful for everything he did for me and my girls.
Rod has book marked a few pages in our lives.
Thank you for the wild rides, may you always soar high.
With love and sadness for Carolyn,Christian and Nickey xoxoxo

I was invited one year to Rod and Carolyn's famous lobster festival...Rod and I drove up from Vancouver, hauling the boat as well..when we got there, he offered me a ride on the dune buggy...I was reluctant at first, but hell, it was Rod, he'd take care of me! WELL, I screamed so loud and so long as he whipped me around the orchard, Carolyn had to come down and see if I was ok!! Scary as it was, I still felt safe cuz I was with Rod...

I met Rod in Whitehorse when we were about eleven years old. He lived up the street and was always cooking up some kind of adventure. One of his early business ideas was to turn his parents' garage into a haunted house populated with our plastic model creatures --Dracula, the Mummy, Creature from the Black Lagoon and good old Frankenstein-- lit with creepy lights. We worked on this for days and Rod even included a snack bar offering "Black Cheery" Kool Aid. When we finally opened for business I think we had three customers including Rod's Mom; but we didn't care, we were already on to the next thing. I was very lucky to have been his friend, even though he scared me almost witless on the back of his Honda 160 going down Two Mile Hill or through the trails to Hidden Lake. He never slowed down; he never stopped sharing his enthusiasm for all the wonders of this world. Hail and farewell, my friend.

Rod was a fixture in my life and my love of shooting and Manly Adventures. We connected back in 1983 and became fast friends. I had opened the Firing Line Shooting ranges and Rod being the ultimate shooter and business Guru said “I want one of those too” He jumped right in. That is what I will always love about the guy… he never would look at any challenge without saying… “I can do that”. Over the years he would fly into my life… and poof… fly out again. Always on the go, always with seven irons in the fire and room for one more. I will never know another man like Rod. He was one of a kind and I will miss him terribly. He loved his Family, his friends and of course his toys… boy he had some toys. We used to try to one up each other but all in good fun. I knew as he knew the real possessions are not the things you park on the driveway or lock in your safe… they were his Loved ones and his friends. We will miss you and that twinkle in your eye... Goodbye my Friend, you never made it down to LA for one last fishing trip… so maybe you owe me one in Heaven.

Rod, you will live in the hearts of so many family and friends forever. My memory of you will always bring a smile as you lived life to its fullest. I have so many fond memories, especially remember years ago when you, Carolyn and the boys lived in Burnaby and you would fly over to Sidney and pick me up and bring me over for the weekend. I felt so spoiled and privileged. Memories..the fairy tale wedding, the gun club, riding in your corvette, cruising along in that old boat you and Carolyn had on the Fraser River. Your love for your family..Carolyn, Nicky and Christian was always so evident. You will be missed so much. You are one of a kind...such a special person...taken way too soon… so much love to give.. multi-talented, huge heart, loved life...now a shining star in the sky. May you rest in peace.

Rod, your passing came as such a shock to me. We just never know when our time will end, do we? Your life may have ended abruptly but your memory lives on in the many lives you touched in your 61 years of life. I have so many fond memories of when I lived in Whitehorse and you were a large part of them, not only in Whitehorse but even beyond that. We visited back and forth when you had the gun shop in New Westminister and then lost touch after that, only to surface again later. I'm sorry that I was unable to attend your "Celebration of life" but it just wasn't feasable at the time as I was and still am completing a course in Calgary. I can't express with words how your family must feel at this time, I never had the opportunity to meet Carolyn and your boys Nick and Christian but I imagine that they must be pretty special. All I can say is that all those lives that you touched in one way or another...have made those people's lives richer for having known you. Rest in peace my friend..

Rod, it has taken me a bit to send my feelings and thoughts to you. Probably because I can't believe that after 61 years of you being my "Kid" Brother, you are no longer here, except spiritually.

Who will I call now to remind of important dates and special times. Who will remind me of times only we shared as children together, young adults growing up and adults aging gently but not quietly?

Who will phone and ask for his "Sugley Heester" and then chuckle that special Rod chuckle? Who will I call to marvel at the ever changing adventures that are taking place and changing constantly in their life? Who will ever have more "Toys" than you to be in awe of?

I do Thank You for so many things though that we have shared. Your Love of my children Erin and David, you are so special to them as an Uncle, Father figure and friend. Your being always supportive of me. Providing me with with the warmth of your Family, Carolyn, Christian and Nicky, whom I truly cherish. Your legacy will be carried on by two beautiful young men, who will continue to make you so proud of them.

Going to your "Celebration of Life" only reconfirmed what I already knew about you, you were admired, respected and most importantly loved by everyone who knew you. Those with character do leave an indelible mark.

I know you are now with the other's that we both loved, please Hug and Kiss them for me.

Go Gently Bro, I Love You...

Remembering Rod makes me smile,he was my Boss, friend and I loved the boys and carolyn like my own family, Thank you for sharing a small part of my life with you all, Rod was funny and told some great stories, I will miss your smile and will always remember flying with you and how much you liked those salmon sandwiches,how you helped buy my car, and let me drive the corvette even if it was just in the drive way... God bless you, Love Jeff,Karon Peay and Boys.

I also last saw Roddy in 2007 at the banquet that Murray mentioned. I was also one of the beginners in the shooting sport "back in the day". I remember Roddy as always smiling, with an easy laughter and optimistic spirit.

While many years passed, I often thought of those "old" days with fondness and my feelings for Rod were the same. Time passed but when we all saw each other in 2007 it seemed as though time had stood still, (except for the human aging part of it) and I expected to hear a joke from Rod.

He was kind, generous, loyal and always willing to lend a hand and do whatever. He touched many lives and his passing has brought up many memories for a lot of his friends.

Spread your wings and fly free.

Till we meet again amigo. RIP

Roddy, what a sad and shocking day I had yesterday to find out you were now gone. The first of dozens of memories that washed over me was the image of you and me as teenagers in your room listening to the Doors, discovering a whole new way to become immersed in those astounding musical waterfalls. Even now,I try hard to recreate moments like that as often as I can, and have a lot of music in my life. It has been a great and constant source of joy in a crazy, random, beautiful, and sometimes unjust world. Thank you.
I marveled as I watched you grab life by the throat in your rambling,charismatic,fearless style. You became an amazing exception to a saying I heard your father deliver many times; "Most people lead lives of quiet desperation".
Our thoughts are with you Carolyn, Christian,Nicholas, Karen and the rest of the family.
Rod, it sure gets quiet "when the musics over".
Love, Rock Hutsul

I met Rod at the first IPSC match in February 1977, along with Murray and Blair. Along with the introduction to guns and shooting came many madcap 16 hour trips to California to shoot on the weekend and get back home in time to work on Monday morning! The "crazy canucks" provided the NVSA shooters with lots of entertainment (on & off the range) and we all made some great friendships there. I will always remember Rod as a fun, upbeat and easy-going guy. I am so thankful to have had Rod in my life and for introducing me to so many great people and the fun of shooting. My sincere sympathies to Carolyn and family for your great loss. He will always be remembered. Fly high my old friend.

Although 20 years or so has passed since I last saw the Philipsen family...my heart still remembers how wonderful Rod and his family were to me. I started babysitting Christian and Nicolas when I was just 12 years old....I spent so many years with them..Carolyn and I formed a very close friendship, and Rod, always made me feel like I wasn't just a babysitter...I was part of his family. He was like a second father to me, a brother I never had and a friend who would have my back no matter what.
I will never forget the times we spent over on the island on Sprout Lake..Carolyn, Christian, Nicolas, Rod and myself loading up in the plane and taking off...for fun filled times in the sun.
I will never forget Rod's easygoing smiling face...his love for life and his family.
My mom saw Rod, in Brentwood Mall, about 5 years ago. I asked her, how did he look..what did he say? She said..you know, same 'ol Rod..happy and smiling!! It melted my heart - because i could see him smiling still...

I believe Rod, even after all these years, you played a part in who I am as a mother, wife and person.

I will never forget you...you are loved by so many..and missed by all.

Love Always,
Cindy

Roddy, what a sad, shocking day I had yesterday to find out that you were gone. The first of dozens of memories that washed over me was the image of you and me as teenagers in your bedroom listening to the Doors, discovering a whole new way to become immersed in those astounding musical waterfalls. Even now, I try to recreate moments like that as often as I can, and have a lot of music in my life. It has been a great and constant source of joy in a crazy, random, beautiful, and sometimes, unjust world. Thank you.
I marveled as I watched you grab life in your unique, rambling, charismatic, fearless style. You are a beautiful exception to a saying that I heard your father deliver more than once, " Most people lead lives of quiet desperation".
Our thoughts are with Carolyn, Christian, Nicholas, Karen and the rest of the family.
Rod, it sure gets quiet "when the music's over".
Love, Rock

I'd like to share with you a few memories of my best friend Rod from the early days when we were growing up in the Yukon. Even as kids, I noticed that Rod had a great mechanical aptitude. One of his first cars was a little Triumph Spitfire. One day the engine would be in pieces on the garage floor, and the next the car would be purring smoothly in the driveway, ready for the next adventure. Off we would go, charging north to Fairbanks to visit friends at U of Alaska. 100 miles down the road the bottom end bearings were clattering like hammers and we could go no further. We parked the car and hitchhiked back to Whitehorse. Next day, we hit the road in his Ford Falcon, and despite a blown water pump we made it there and back again.
On another occasion, we "borrowed" my dad's Olds Cutlass and hit the road again for Fairbanks. Somewhere over the Alaskan border, with Rod behind the wheel, we met an 18 wheeler on a narrow bridge, and when we emerged from a cloud of blinding snow, somehow still alive and going much too fast, we had a good laugh, and chalked up one of our nine lives. In 1970 we travelled together for three months through Europe, from Holland to France and Spain, through Yugoslavia and Greece to Istanbul and back by way of Austria. We drove a little one litre Simca "borrowed" from my uncle. And yes, we blew the engine in that car too, drafting transport trucks near Paris. But we fixed it and drove on, often without stopping for days, changing drivers on the fly, living on coffee, bread, milk, cheap wine, and the intoxicating exuberance of the open road of our youth. Those adventures have faded with the passing years, but we would often recall them with a chuckle in casual conversation. We kept in touch on a regular basis, and when I toured his hangar in Langley last year, and watched Rod insert his arm deep into a motorcycle before pressing the start button to get the machine to roar to life, I realized that he never lost his ability to be one with machines. Anything with an engine was at his command. After years of unfulfilled promises, we finally shared that bottle of single malt scotch from a paper bag on his back porch in Oyama last July, and relived the adventures that have forged our lives as friends.

I remain stunned and heartbroken by his sudden untimely passing. His spirit remains strong in me and I am sure in all those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace my friend. My deepest sympathies to Carolyn, sons Christian and Nicholas, and sister Karen and her family.

I met Rod (plus Murray and the rest of the IPSC crowd) back in the middle 70's and I have many fond memories of the shoots we attended together. Rod and I were on the very first Canadian IPSC National 5 Man Team that flew overseas and competed in the 1979 IPSC World Championships held in Roodeport, South Africa. That was an amazing trip, and one that I will never forget. Rod was always a tough and enthusiastic competitor and I will always cherish my memories of our times shooting together.

Oct5. 11 2011

What a tragic loss you have suffered Carolyn. It was only 10 days earlier that we were all walking around our yard looking at old cars and remembering all the old days.

I have known Rod since the early 60's as I was a close friend with his brother Andy . It was a big surprise to find that Rod and Caroln lived about a KM. from our home in Oyama . Rod and I shared a strong love of old cars and also a long life of Flying. I wish we would of shared more time togeather as I know we would of been much closer neighbours.
Carolyn remember that I am a close neighbour and would love to be of help if you should need me.

Of many, my fondest memory of Rod was on June 27th 1997, the one year anniversary of my mother passing away. I was promised a flight to Kelowna out of Pitt Meadows by my brother, Doug Scott, who informed me around 10 am that the weather was socked in all the way and no one was flying anywhere. Not being willing to give up, I sat at Command Air, waiting with a framed poem I had written and a bouquet of flowers to take to my Dad in a nursing home in Westbank on this bittersweet anniversary. As the day passed, pilots came and went, including Rod, but the inclement weather was holding tight. As the café was about to close and I thought I would have to go home, defeated by the storm, Rod blew in and announced “We’ve got a hole kid, lets go!” and 5 minutes later we were in the air. Carolyn met us at Kelowna and they delivered me to my Dad’s nursing home. I knew later that this wonderfully caring man risked more than our lives that day, in order to fulfill a promise that meant so much to me and consequently to my father. He passed away a few months after that visit but I know that Rod getting me there that night was more special to my Dad than any other trip I had made to see him. For that, I will be forever grateful and you will always be in my heart Rod! Love and miss all your crazy warped sense of humour and thanks for my only helicopter ride, to Chilliwack for the best pie and coffee I ever had.
Fly free forever in Heaven's skies Rod.
My sincere condolences to Carolyn, Christian, Nicholas and the many family & dear friends left to grieve his loss. His bigger than life presence will be missd by all that knew him.

My Uncle Rod always seemed to be smiling and happy whenever I saw him. He was a one of a kind man. A real 'man's' man. He was a businessman, a pilot, a mechanic, a marksman (is that what it's called?), a fisherman. He did everything, it seemed. My heart breaks for my Auntie Caroline and Christian and Nicholas. Much love to you all from me and Devon and Cameron. Love always, Tiffany

One of many, my fondest memory of Rod was on June 27th 1997, the one year anniversary of my mother passing away. I was promised a flight to Kelowna out of Pitt Meadows by my brother, Doug Scott, who informed me around 10 am that the weather was socked in all the way and no one was flying anywhere. Not being willing to give up, I sat at Command Air, waiting, all day, with a framed poem I had written and a bouquet of flowers to take to my Dad who was in a nursing home in Westbank on this bittersweet anniversary. As the day passed, pilots came and went, including Rod, but the inclement weather was holding tight and no one was flying. As the café was about to close and I thought I would have to go home, defeated by the storm, Rod blew in and announced “We’ve got a hole kid, lets go!” and 5 minutes later we were in the air. It was an uneventful flight, not even any turbulence! Carolyn met us at Kelowna and they delivered me to my Dad at the nursing home. I knew later that this wonderfully caring man risked more than our lives that day, in order to fulfill a promise that meant so much to me and consequently to my father. He passed away a few months after that visit but I know that Rod getting me there that night was more special to me and my Dad than any other trip I had made to see him. For that, I will be forever grateful and you will always be in my heart Rod! Love and miss all your crazy warped sense of humour too and thanks for my only helicopter ride, to Chilliwack for the best pie and coffee I ever had.
RIP good buddy. You were one in a million!

Greetings from Brisbane, Australia. I met Rod thirty years ago just after relocating to Vancouver from Toronto. He was interested in learning the fighting arts and I was fascinated with combat shooting; together, we agreed to become "students" of each other :-) and this quickly turned into a great friendship and ultimately a business partnership. Together, we formed the "The Vancouver Karate Centre," which lasted until I migrated to Japan 6-years later. We stayed in touch over the years and saw each other during my visits back to Canada. I was so pleased that my children Bianca and Taylor [born in Japan] had the pleasure of meeting him, Carolyn Christian and Nicky. I was lucky enough to spend some q-time with he and Carolyn in June of last year during a brief visit to Canada and will cherish that final memory. What an absolutely wonderful person Rod was, the kind of person who simply gave so much of himself. I wouldn't at all be surprised to learn that a book or even some kind of movie was to be made about his life! Of course, I doubt the CIA would ever allow that ";-) I am grateful to have been one of his close friends and even more happy to have been a recipient of his unwavering generosity; simply put, my life was greatly enriched because of this remarkable person. Even though he's now gone physically, the indelible memories, and unshakable bond holding us together in friendship, means that he'll never ever be very far away, in spirit. I miss you buddy... save me a place, "up there!" - Pat

Greetings from Brisbane, Australia. I met Rod thirty years ago just after relocating to Vancouver from Toronto. He was interested in learning the fighting arts and I was fascinated with combat shooting; together, we agreed to become "students" of each other :-) and this quickly turned into a great friendship and ultimately a business partnership. Together, we formed the "The Vancouver Karate Centre," which lasted until I migrated to Japan 6-years later. We stayed in touch over the years and saw each other during my visits back to Canada. I was so pleased that my children Bianca and Taylor [born in Japan] had the pleasure of meeting him, Carolyn Christian and Nicky. I was lucky enough to spend some q-time with he and Carolyn in June of last year during a brief visit to Canada and will cherish that final memory. What an absolutely wonderful person Rod was, the kind of person who simply gave so much of himself. I wouldn't at all be surprised to learn that a book or even some kind of movie was to be made about his life! Of course, I doubt the CIA would ever allow that ";-) I am grateful to have been one of his close friends and even more happy to have been a recipient of his unwavering generosity; simply put, my life was greatly enriched because of this remarkable person. Even though he's now gone physically, the indelible memories, and unshakable bond holding us together in friendship, means that he'll never ever be very far away, in spirit. I miss you buddy... save me a place, "up there!" - Pat

I knew Rod for some years. I am a civilian Search and Rescue pilot and spent four days, two in awful weather, searching for him.
His helicopter was found as I was searching in the mountains a little to the South.
I am glad he was found, but saddened by his demise.
My sincere condolences to his family, friends and all of the people touched by him in his life.

The last time I saw Roddy, was in Kelowna this past summer; where I had the great pleasure to spend time with his wonderful family and meet Uncle Rod's (my new) beautiful neices..As usual, Rod had wonderful, exciting stories of his adventures up north.The best times of my life were spent with Roddy and your beautiful family;you were always so patient ,kind and generous to my family; I'm so grateful for all the crazy good fun and laughter ..love you forever bud...say Hi to RY for me Love Debra-Lee

Rod and I last met in 2007 at the 30th IPSC Canada Nationals banquet. He was co-founder of that sport and instrumental in its success.
Rod was the one who dubbed me with a nickname, DOC, which no one, including me knew why until he noted that I sign everything MDGardner.
That nickname is one of the many things Rod added to my life that make him unforgettable.
I have a memorial for Rod from his shooting friends at www.mdgardner.com.
Gone but always in our thoughts.

Last time we spoke Roddy, was when Abe and I were in Whitehorse in June this summer. Cheerful as usual you said you would fly over to Victoria to give me a spin in the chopper. I know you had a very busy life and you never made it, but at least it was good to speak with you about things like we always did.
Knew you since we was kids, and like Abe you could fix anything. Taught me how to use a wrench, you handy guy.
Codolences to Carolyn, Christian, Nicolas. also to Karen and Erin.
Say hi to Andy and give Lucas a hug for me.
I will miss you amigo, you always were greater than life.
Till we meet again with both feet on the rudder pedals and hands on the stick.
love you man, Michiel VO