12-7-16

This my oldest brother, Rod proudly holding 1 of his 14 grandchildren.

 (photo from a couple years ago).

As some of you may know Rod's been fighting cancer for years & in recent weeks has been failing. Today he was taken to the hospital in Des Moines, Iowa by his wife, Kathy. He's there now fighting to stay strong enough to see his 6 kids face to face before it's time for him to go and meet his Heavenly Father. 

Here are Rod's daughters; Danielle, Daira, Dawn, Dana. Daira lives in Des Moines & has been with Rod all day. The other girls are flying in from Colorado & Pennsylvania.

Here are Rod's boys; Reggie & Robby. Reggie also lives in Des Moines and has been with his dad today. And Robby drove from Missouri & has been by Rod's side too along with Kathy, Susan, Monte, Emily, Brent, Nancy & others. I am thankful I was able to talk to Rod by phone this afternoon & though he was weak & hard to understand I loved hearing his words that only a big brother knows how to speak to his youngest sister. I'm glad I could share my love & admiration for him & talk about some wonderful memories. This is such a difficult time for my family & yet there is much to be thankful for in this time of sorrow. Praying all his kids arrive safely & surround him with the LOVE they have for him & each other. I am going to post the words from Robby below (he put this on Facebook & in response there have been hundreds of messages written about & to Rod for Robby to read him in the hospital). Rod has touched many people positively throughout his life; students & players he's coached, friends, family & communities. He's been a do-er & has lived with passion for the things he believes in. I love you, brother Rod!