Rodney Jay Ehler

Rodney Jay Ehler

Rodney Jay Ehler, 77, of Scottsbluff, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Mitchell Care Center. A Celebration of Rod's life will be on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 10:30am at Zion Evangelical Church in Scottsbluff with Pastor Andy Griess officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff. The family will host a time of remembrance to share memories of Rod with family and friends on Tuesday, July 22 from 6-8pm at Bridgman Funeral Home. Rod would often say, "Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat!" In his honor, feel free to wear red and white to show your Bearcat pride. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Rod's name may be made to the Scottsbluff Zion Evangelical Church in Scottsbluff, the Scottsbluff High School Athletic Hall of Fame, or the Chadron State College Foundation. Online condolences may be made by viewing Rod's memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.

Rodney Jay Ehler was a man who lived with purpose, led with kindness, and loved without limits leaving behind a legacy that will ripple through generations.

Rod was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Glenda, for nearly 17 years. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love - filled with laughter, deep partnership, and shared purpose. Together, they experienced more travel than Rod ever had before, coached side by side, and found joy in celebrating Christmas surrounded by family. Rod even taught Glenda to golf, though it was clear that in so many ways, he leaned on her just as much. Glenda was his rock, his companion, and, without question, his person.

In 1965, Rod married Pam Conner and together they raised three children - Jay, Brooks, and Brock who he was very proud of. Rod led by example, with determination, integrity, and a steady presence that made others feel safe and supported. As "Papa Rod" to his beloved grandchildren, he was always armed with a quick wit, a playful tease, or a funny story guaranteed to bring laughter. His humor, warmth, and light-hearted spirit created memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Rod grew up on the farm alongside his parents, Jack and Mary Ehler, and his two brothers, Gary and Jack. Those early years instilled in him a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for family, and the grounded values that would guide him throughout his life. He attended Fairview 50, Roosevelt Elementary, Scottsbluff Jr. High and High School before going on to attend both Scottsbluff Jr. College (WNCC) and Chadron State College. Rod's athleticism went far beyond the word "amazing"-he was a force, a leader, and an inspiration on and off the field and court!

Rod's talent on the baseball field was undeniable. At just 15 years old, he was called up to play Legion baseball - a rare honor that spoke volumes about his skill and potential. Word of his ability spread quickly, drawing the attention of multiple professional scouts, including representatives from the New York Yankees - Rod's favorite team. It was clear to anyone who watched him play that he wasn't just good; he was something special.

In addition to his remarkable baseball talent, Rod also shined on the basketball court. In 1965, he was named First Team Class A All-State, a prestigious recognition of his skill and leadership on the hardwood. His athletic legacy was further honored in 1988 when he and his lifelong friend Dean Palser were inducted into the Chadron State Hall of Fame. Rod for baseball and basketball and Dean for football. That recognition continued years later: on July 18, 2014, Rod's 1966–67 Chadron State basketball team was inducted into the Chadron State Hall of Fame for representing Nebraska at the NAIA National Championship. Rod's passion, determination, and talent left a lasting impact on the game and on those who played alongside him.

A lifelong educator, Rod dedicated over 36 years to teaching physical education and coaching multiple sports. Rod had the unique and cherished opportunity to work alongside his daughter, Brooks, when she joined him as a middle school physical education teacher. Sharing their passion for teaching and coaching created a special bond. His love for athletics extended far beyond the classroom and playing field - he was also a committed sports official, proudly refereeing at all levels. His expertise and integrity on the court earned him the honor of officiating the 1987 Class A Boys' State Basketball Championship with Dean.

Even after retirement, Rod's passion for coaching never waned. He continued to shape young athletes, coaching alongside his son Brock and leaving a lasting legacy that spanned over 50 years. Rod had a remarkable gift for bringing lessons to life - making every student feel seen, valued, and capable of becoming a standout athlete through hard work and determination. Known to many as Coach Ehler, he was more than a coach; he was a motivator, a mentor, and a role model. He inspired not only athletes but all young people to pursue their goals with grit, resilience, and heart.

Everyone who knew Rod knew how much he loved to laugh and joke with those around him. His sense of humor was a constant presence - lightening hearts, lifting spirits, and bringing people together. Rod believed in doing things the right way, even when it was the hard way, and he lived his life grounded in faith, humility, and joy.

He often said that everyone needs a hero - and through the way he lived, he quietly became one. His 11-year battle with Parkinson's was marked by strength, resilience, and grace. He faced every challenge with the same determination and courage that defined his entire life. To all who knew him, Rod wasn't just an inspiration - he was our hero.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Ehler, his older brother Gary Ehler, his nephew Kip Ehler, parents-in-law Charlie and Wilma Younkin, nephew Garrett Younkin, and his best friend Dean Palser.

Rod leaves behind his beloved wife, Glenda, and his children: Jay and Sheri Ehler, Brooks and Shane Talkington, Brock and Mary Ehler, Brent and Kelsey Hanson, and Courtney Hanson. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Bowdy and Kassie Ehler, Brayden and Noah Kerchal, Paxton and Avery Ehler, Alli Ehler and Brian Potter, Jayda Ahrens, Tate Talkington, Lehla Ehler, Matthew and Maddi Barraza, Madilyn Sanchez, and Brynn and Griffin Hanson.

Rod was also blessed with 5.8 great-grandchildren - Finlea, Graham, and Rhett Ehler, Jagger Ehler, Dempsey Ehler, and baby Kai Kerchal, expected in August 2025.

He is survived by his brother Jack and Susan Ehler; sister-in-law Geri Ehler; brothers-in-law Jim and Lorna Younkin, Joe and Brenda Younkin, and Jeff Younkin; sister-in-law Cindy Younkin and her husband Terry Koral. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as a wide circle of extended family, dear friends, former colleagues, students, athletes, coaches, and teammates who will miss him dearly.