Rodney Reese

It is with profound gratitude for knowing him - magnified by the stark reality of his loss - that we share the passing of Rodney Reese. The endlessly creative and eternally optimistic face (and arguably the heart) of Ohio's Invention Conventions for nearly 2 decades as "Captain Gadget", Rodney got his wings unexpectedly, October 30, 2022, in Columbus, Ohio. He was 70.

A 1970 graduate of Springfield Ohio's Shawnee High School, Rodney pursued his passion at Ohio University's College of Fine Arts, earning a Bachelors in Art & Drama in 1974.

It was a privilege to work with, learn from and be inspired by this man. A creative genius driven by a huge giving heart, Rodney Reese was brilliant. In his talent and in his humanity.

Rodney truly loved bringing 'Captain Gadget's' optimism and joy of inventing to Ohio's young people. He celebrated their ideas and creativity, letting them know that their ideas were powerful, and that they as individuals mattered. He was truly an inventor...also an artist, poet, puppeteer, musician, a sometimes pirate(!), a father of 8 of whom he was most proud, all. He was a force of nature. A true friend.

Above all else, in all things, Rodney was a teacher. Not just in the classrooms of Invention Convention and CCAD (Columbus College of Art & Design), or the many creative endeavors he supported, but in the lives of everyone whose path he crossed...young and less young. He lived life large - unapologetically putting it all on the table - and making sure the people and programs he loved knew that he loved them. He loved his family first and last.

Preceeded in passing by: his sister Sheryl Haggard, parents Willard Reese and Martha (McConnaughey) Reese, and his grandson Jaxon...Rodney is survived by: his sister Joy; children Alicia, Joel, Emma, Stephen, Abigail, Molly, Logan and Noah; grandchildren Isabelle, Andrew, Kristen, Liliana, Lyric, Anora, Cohen, Emery, Zander, Harrison, Sara, Naomi and Cleo. And his sweetie, the other half of his heart, Janet.

A 'Joyful Celebration of Life' will take place on Rodney's birthday, Monday, December 19, 2022; at, Harry Wolfe Park, 9777 Industrial Parkway, Plain City, Ohio 43064. Beginning at 3pm - until 10PM. Come when you can, stay as long as you can.

Bring your stories, your memories, your laughter & tears, (your best dance moves!) and your creative muscle to help create a legacy art wall for family that tells his story, as he would have wished. Rodney was a vibrant, colorful soul...he would wish you be too. (no black, please; but if so, no worries, you will be 'brightened/colorized upon arrival.)

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory will provide art supplies & inspirational art tutorial (Rodney's) to aspiring student artists. For details on how to sponsor "Rodney's R-tists" (1), contact: brilliantgargoyles@gmail.com, to learn opportunities available for your honorarium. Type in 'Rodney's R-tists' in the message line, and your inquiry will be followed up on shortly.

In gratitude for knowing this man.