Rodney E. Carpenter

Rodney E. Carpenter, 80, passed away on September 4, 2025, in Muncie, Indiana, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.
Born on January 4, 1945, in Muncie, Rod was the beloved son of Earl and Kathryn (Dance) Carpenter. He graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1963 and began a long, dedicated career for over 40 years at General Motors Chevrolet Muncie, where he worked in the Quality Control Department. Rod took great pride in his work and built lasting friendships with many of his coworkers over the decades.
To know Rod was to love him. His magnetic personality, quick wit, and effortless ability to make others laugh were at the heart of who he was. A natural-born jokester, Rod had a gift for storytelling and could turn even the most ordinary moment into something unforgettable. His sense of humor was not just a trait-it was a trademark-and he brought joy, laughter, and lightness to everyone around him. His two daughters and granddaughters were his greatest joys, and also his most enthusiastic audience.
Rod was also an avid golfer with an impressive nine hole-in-ones to his name-something he was immensely proud of. He found great peace and happiness on the golf course, especially when shared with good friends, a cold brewski in hand, and a golf cart under the sun. He was a proud member of Moose Lodge 33, Elks Lodge 245, and the Elks Golf Association, where his humor, sportsmanship, and camaraderie made him a cherished presence.
After retiring from GM, Rod embraced life even more fully, spending winters in Punta Gorda, Florida, with his devoted longtime partner, Mary Lou Hall. Their years together were filled with love, laughter, and a deep companionship that brought Rod great happiness.
Rod was preceded in death by his loving parents, Earl and Kathryn. He is survived by his partner, Mary Lou Hall; his daughters, Camila Mehanovic (Riki Mehanovic) and Amanda Spagnoli; and his adored granddaughters, Gia Jacobi and Chloe Spagnoli; and also his loving sister, Jennifer Faris (Jeff Faris). His absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Rocket Rodney's life in your best golf attire at The Meeks Mortuary, Mt. Pleasant Chapel on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Friends and family may call at The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Mt. Pleasant Chapel on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Little Red Door – Muncie, 413 S. Tillotson Ave. Unit 3, Muncie, IN 47304 or www.littlereddoor.org.
Online condolences may be shared at www.meeksmortuary.com.