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Kenneth Rodman Obituary

Kenneth J Rodman The Central Coast lost a dedicated community servant with the passing of Kenneth J Rodman on January 23, 2019. He died peacefully at home in San Luis Obispo at the age of 84, surrounded by his family. Born on February 24,1934 to Charles and Clara Rodman in Oldfield, Missouri and lived in Missouri through high school graduating from Webb City High School in 1952. In 1950 Ken joined the Missouri National Guard and the U.S. Navy in 1952, where he served four years as an Aviation Machinist - Petty Officer 3rd class. While in the Service, Ken met Dale Winslow and developed a friendship that would last throughout his lifetime. Dale introduced Ken to San Luis Obispo and he moved here after serving his country. Ken was the co-owner and then owner of San Luis Dental Lab from 1960-2018. He married Leslie Fancher in 1980 and the two loved to golf, travel and spend time with friends and family. They also began a lifetime of community service. His community service included: Coaching Little League Baseball, Mustang Boosters, Black and Gold Boosters, 4-H leader, Sportsman Club, the American Legion, Caballeros, SLO Country Club and the Kiwanis Club (1962-present) where he was one of the famous BBQ team that donated their time and skills for fundraisers that generated thousands of dollars in funds for our non-profit organizations and the youth of this community. He also started a coffee group in 1966 of community leaders that meet each morning, which continues today. After the passing of his son Mark in 2000, Ken dedicated much of his time to his grandsons: Brian and Daniel. Ken is survived by his wife, Leslie, daughter Christa, two grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews. The Rodman family would like to personally thank Dr. Stephen Hilty and staff, Dr. Jeffery Herten and Dr. Thomas Spillane. A special thank you to Central Coast Hospice and especially Nurse Colleen. There will be a celebration of Ken's life on Friday, February 8, 10 a.m. at Mission SLO de Tolosa. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Central Coast Funds for Children, P.O. Box 1046, San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 or Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave. San Luis Obispo, 93405.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Feb. 3, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Carol Orona

February 8, 2019

We attended the beautiful memorial service this morning. The mission was filled with people young and old. What a validation on how Ken was loved by family, friends and community. Rest in peace, Ken.

Wendy Hallin

February 8, 2019

Ken was always a welcome face at the dental practice I worked at in SLO. Such a kind gentle man always looked forward to seeing him.

Bill Mortimer

February 5, 2019

Ken Rodman was one of the kindest people that I had the pleasure of knowing. Leslie, my most sincerest condolences.
Much love to you. <3

Judy Huelga

February 5, 2019

Dear Leslie and family:
Saddened to read of the passing of your husband. I remember, when working at SLCUSD, how you both traveled and enjoyed life together. Sincerest condolences.

Barbara Bailey

February 3, 2019

Dear Leslie, Christa, Brian and Daniel, I am saddened to learn of Ken's illness and death. I have been out of touch for many years but I will never forget the joy with which Ken lived, the optimism he shared, his love for his family, friends, and community. I hope you find peace and strength with similar memories.

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