Rodney Land

1941 - 2022

Rodney Land

April 11, 1941 - Oct. 27, 2022

Rodney gained his wings on October 27, 2022, with his wife of 52 years, his children and their spouses beside him. As grace would have it a dear family friend (Sandy) was side by side with the family during those precious moments. With the sound of the ocean in the background and the voices of his children and his wife, Rodney's beautiful spirit left this earth to be met with open arms by his parents, Herb Land, Lovella Land Marquez; step parents, Lenore Land and Al Marquez; brother, Irving Land; and nephew, Peter Gerlach.

Rodney was born and raised in Napa Valley, the descendant of pioneer stock. Rodney had the blood and spirit of the Glos, Stice and Land families running through him. With farming in his DNA he worked the Land Ranch as a young man then served his country with honor in the US Army, Returning to the ranch until it sold. He then worked for Clos Du Val for 28 years, where he planted and took care of the vineyards.

Rodney valued family above all. The foundation of his love and dedication to family was ingrained in him by his grandparents and parents. Sunday dinners with Grandma and Grandpa Glos, along with Aunts, Uncles and cousins, leaving a lifelong impression he strived to pass on to his children.

Rodney married Sharon Gerlach Land in 1970, and went on to enjoy 52 years of marriage. He once told his daughter that he knew when he met Sharon that he would marry her.

Together they had two children: Mark Land (Lisa), Shawna Land Pacheco ( Andree), were his pride and joy. He was the proud Papa to Samantha Dunn, Elijah Schimmer, Rylee and Emery Land; and his best napping buddy great-grandson, Grayson. Grayson will always look to the stars knowing papa is keeping an eye on things. Rodney is survived by his sisters: Sonya Heine, Sharon Eash; and brother and sister-in-law: John and Kathy Gerlach. Many nieces and nephews and countless cousins.

There will be a celebration of Rods life December 3, 2022, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. at his cousins private park at the end of Mee Lane, Rutherford, CA, then follow signs. Rodney wasn't fancy so dress comfy and warm, jeans and a plaid shirt is the way he'd like it. It was his signature dress. There will be a light lunch and if it rains will be moved to son Marks home on Vichy Ave Napa. Contact me via FB messenger if you need directions. We have shared many special times at this park.

Donation in Rods name can be make to: 4-H Program Coordination, US Cooperative Extention

1710 Soscol Ave Suite 4, Napa , CA, 94559. Please put on check It is for Peter Gerlach Memorial Scholarship fund. Or to the charity of donor choice.