Dennis Arnold Rode

Dennis Arnold Rode, 77, was born on July 9, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away on December 19, 2025. Though he grew up and lived in California for many years, Newnan, Georgia, became the place he truly called home, where he lived for 28 years.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph Rode and Mary Lombardo Rode. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Suzanne Keune Rode; his daughter, Monica Rode Pannone, and her husband, Mike; his son, Wayne Ricky Rode, and his wife, Paulette; his brother, Wayne Rode; and his sister, Debbie Rode Davison, and her husband, Ron; his grandchildren, Mitchel Pannone, Michaele Pannone Robinson, Kristopher Alexander, and Nickolas Hardin; and eight great-grandchildren.

Dennis spent 43 years working for Mead Packaging, retiring as a Finishing Department Manager. He was proud of his career and known for his dedication, leadership, and strong work ethic. He earned his bachelor's degree from California State University, Fullerton, a milestone he carried with quiet pride.

He found joy in the simple things-riding motorcycles and horses, swimming in Lake Coweta, traveling, and caring for animals with a gentle heart. Dennis was a genuinely kind and loving man, known for his great sense of humor and his ability to lift up with words of encouragement.

Above all, Dennis loved his family and lived his life with warmth, compassion, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the chapel of McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson St., Newnan, GA. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM. Friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate Dennis's life.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.mckoon.com

In lieu of flowers, you may make a memorial contribution to your favorite charity or to Collie Rescue of the Carolinas, P.O. Box 1313, Kernersville, North Carolina 27285, in memory of his beloved collies.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to The Haven at Newnan and Sacred Journey Hospice for their loving care and compassion.

McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580.