Rodney Dean Adams

Rodney 'Rod' Adams, 55, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 18, 2025, at his home in Greeley. Born on April 16, 1970, in Greeley to Tim Adams, and raised with his stepmother, Shirley (Marine) Adams, Rod lived a vibrant life defined by his relentless curiosity, skillful hands, and entrepreneurial spirit.
From a young age, Rod was a hard worker, a trait instilled by his father, Tim, who inspired his tireless drive. At 15, Rod worked diligently to buy his first car, a Volkswagen. Rod always had parts scattered across the family garage as he tinkered and learned. After graduating from high school, he pursued his passion for mechanics, earning an associate's degree in mechanical engineering a few years later. Rod proudly served as a machinist in the United States Navy from 1990 to 1998, including during Desert Storm, retiring as an E-4. His technical expertise and dedication to his country laid the foundation for his remarkable ability to fix, build, and tinker with anything. A true modern-day MacGyver, Rod could take apart engines and rebuild them in his shop, always driven to understand how things worked and why. This passion led him to work on one of his favorite projects, his bulldozer. His passion for learning was boundless-if he didn't know how to do something, he'd dive into books or videos until he mastered it. A lover of numbers and statistics, Rod's sharp mind was always at work, whether analyzing data or dreaming up new projects.
At the age of 37, Rod's entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own business, a milestone that filled his family, especially dad, Tim, with immense pride. His love for business books and creative problem-solving fueled his success as an entrepreneur. Rod's adventurous side took him on motorcycle rides, fishing trips, and travels, where he soaked in the world's wonders with an open heart. Rod always put others first, taking care of his friends and family, remaining a steadfast support for those he loved until his final day. At home, his pets-Bruce, Gizmo, Luke, Socks, and Buttons-were his loyal companions, each one a testament to his gentle and caring nature.
On May 2, 2008, in Greeley, Rod married the true love of his life, Brinda (Schanaman) Adams, building a life filled with love and shared dreams. Rod's legacy lives on through his devotion to his family, his craft, and his community. He is survived by his loving wife, Brinda Adams; daughter, Charidan, and her husband, Jason Bunch; son, David, and his wife, Krystal Adams; grandchildren, Jocelyn, Launa, and Shyra; father, Tim Adams; stepmother, Shirley Adams; mother-in-law, Toni; sisters-in-law, Jackie and Lisa; brother-in-law, Danny; best friend, Chris Wilkerson; and a large, loving extended family. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Adams, and his grandparents, Clyde and Alice Adams.
A Visitation will be held at the First Church of the Nazarene, 2515 W. 16th Street, Greeley, on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The Celebration of Life will follow at 10:00 AM, with a reception from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The family requests that attendees wear work clothes, work boots, and hats to honor Rod's hardworking hands and spirit.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rod's honor to Banner Hospice, 2001 70th Ave Ste 100, Greeley, CO 80634, attn: Julie Miller. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.LighthouseFamilyLFM.com.
Rod's memory will endure in the cherished trips he shared with his wife, Brinda, the clank of tools, and the love of everyone around him.