David Paul Rodabaugh

David Paul Rodabaugh
January 2, 1942 – May 8, 2025
David Paul Rodabaugh, 83, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, was welcomed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on May 8, 2025.
Born on January 2, 1942 in Hammond, Indiana, Dave lived a life defined by faith, service and love. As the son of a pastor, Dave accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at just five years old - a decision that shaped every aspect of his life. His unwavering devotion to the Lord guided his actions, relationships and purpose. His greatest desire was that others would come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior.
In 1965, Dave married the love of his life, Eleanor Ann Strohm. After meeting at just 13 years old, Dave declared, "I will marry that girl one day!" Together, they faithfully served Christ side by side for 60 years - a partnership built on love, shared ministry and mutual devotion to their faith and family.
Dave earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rose Polytechnic Institute in 1967. He began his professional career at the Pillsbury Company in Terre Haute, Indiana. In 1973, he was transferred to Minneapolis, where he served as the head of the company's contract packaging division. In 1992, he founded Kopak Packaging, which he led until 2018. David was more than a businessman - he was a provider of opportunities. He employed many, including missionaries, pastors, young people and those in need of a second chance, always with compassion and generosity.
Dave's heart for ministry shone brightest in his support of pastors and his dedication to serving others. In Terre Haute, Indiana, he served as youth minister and song leader. He launched a thriving bus ministry through which many young people came to Christ and later entered ministry themselves.
The majority of Dave's ministry years were spent at Woodcrest Baptist Church in Fridley, Minnesota, where he faithfully served for decades. He held multiple roles-song leader, youth leader, chairman of the deacon board, Sunday school teacher, and director of the children's bus ministry. He poured countless hours into driving buses for youth events and mission trips and even served as the on-site contractor for the construction of the church's gymnasium.
His leadership, powerful voice, and unwavering service left a lasting impact on generations. After moving to Wisconsin, Dave and his wife became members of Crossway Church in Germantown, continuing their commitment to faithful service.
Dave had a deep love for gospel music and could often be found worshipping his Savior in song. Whether leading hymns in church, singing along with the Gaithers or playing piano at home, music was a vital expression of his faith.
To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as "Poppie" - a fun, loving and steady presence in their lives. He was always ready with a story, a smile or a word of encouragement.
Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Rodabaugh; his daughters, Jana (Alex Miller), Dana (Jim Towberman), and Tana Brokering; and his cherished grandchildren: Madelyn, Chloe and Spencer Brokering; Tyler (Bailey) and Will Towberman; Ella, Easton and Eli Miller. He is also survived by his twin brother, Daniel Rodabaugh (Stanita); sister Maxine Rodabaugh, brother-in-law Bill Strohm (Michelle); and sisters-in-law Susan Avenatti and Sandy Rodabaugh, and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Orril Rodabaugh; brothers, Wayne and Larry Rodabaugh; sister-in-law Betty Rodabaugh; his son-in-law, Warren Brokering, and two heavenly grandbabies.
Dave leaves behind a legacy of faith, humility and servant leadership. He loved deeply, served faithfully and worshiped joyfully. His life was a testimony to the grace of God and the power of a life wholly surrendered to Him.
As he leaves this Earth, his deepest desire would be for you to accept Jesus into your heart as your Lord and Savior.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
– Proverbs 3:5–6
Dave often said, "When I die, don't cry. Celebrate! I am with Jesus!"
His family finds deep comfort in those words and the unshakable faith behind them.
A visitation will be held to celebrate Dave's life and faith on May 17, 2025 from 11:00 Am to 12:00 noon, followed by a service at Hartson Funeral Home, 11111 W. Janesville Rd., Hales Corners, Wisconsin.