Darrell Roddick

Darrell Roddick, aged 76, of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, passed away on February 20, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer attributed to Agent Orange exposure during his service in Vietnam. Born on March 1, 1947, to Lyle and Mable (Ward) Roddick, Darrell's early life on a dairy farm instilled in him a work ethic and resilience that defined his life.
A proud veteran, Darrell served in the U.S. Army's 1st Signal Brigade during the Vietnam War, notably during the Tet Offensive. His military career was distinguished by his dedication and achievements, including being honored as Soldier of the Month and achieving the rank of E-5. Despite the challenges, including a struggle with PTSD, Darrell's love for electronics and his service led him to a fulfilling career post-military. He worked for over 30 years at TDS (Utelco), progressing from a Central Office Technician to a Senior Network Engineer, a role he spoke of with passion and pride.
Darrell's life was marked by his love for his family, whom he often spoke of with great pride. He is survived by his brother, Gerry Roddick; his children, Ginger Roddick, Chris Roddick and wife Tonia, Heather Stachel (Roddick), Jenny Roddick, and stepdaughter Lily Liemsithisak; grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy. Darrell was preceded in death by his life partner, Ora, and his parents, Lyle and Mable Roddick.
Beyond his professional and military achievements, Darrell was a man of many interests, from engineering to music, where he played the baritone and made the All-State Band in high school. His story of resilience, hard work on the dairy farm, and the unique coincidence connecting his family to the Bunker Hill School in Ellenboro, Wisconsin, highlighted the small-world experiences that enriched his life.
In lieu of a traditional memorial service, Darrell wished for a Celebration of Life to be held in his honor on March 1st, at FRIENDS OF HAUMERSON'S POND, 550 S Fourth St E, Fort Atkinson, WI, from 1-8 pm. No events are scheduled; guests are welcome to come at any time to celebrate Darrell's life and legacy in a manner that reflects the joy and love he shared with all who knew him.
Darrell Roddick's journey from the dairy farms of Wisconsin to the battlefields of Vietnam and back to the heart of his community tells a story of a life lived with honor, love, and a deep commitment to the values he held dear. Known for his warm smile and generous spirit, Darrell's enduring courage and wisdom touched the lives of everyone he met. Beyond his accomplishments, it was his kindness, humor, and the unwavering support he offered to friends and family that truly defined his character.
As we prepare to celebrate Darrell's remarkable life, we, his family, are forever grateful for the community's support during his final days. His legacy of strength, compassion, and dedication to others will continue to inspire us all. We invite you to join us in honoring a man whose life exemplified the best of what it means to be a part of this world. Darrell will be dearly missed, but his impact will forever be remembered and cherished in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Darrell's memory to the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. These contributions will support the General Purpose Fund (GPF8014), aiding a variety of veteran-specific needs throughout the hospital, reflecting Darrell's lasting impact on the veteran community.
To make a donation by check:
Payable to: Madison VA Hospital
Memo: GPF8014
Address for mailing donations:
ATTN: 135 Community Relations
William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital
2500 Overlook Terrace
Madison, WI 53705
Your generosity in Darrell's memory will greatly assist in enhancing the care and support provided to veterans at the Madison VA Hospital. The family deeply appreciates your contribution towards this cause close to Darrell's heart.
Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson is assisting the family.
www.DunlapMemorialhome.com