Leroy (Bud) Rodman

Leroy (Bud) Rodman, of Stockton, went to heaven to join his wife on February 13, 2023, at Hays Medical Center, at the age of 97.

He was born in Ree Heights, S.D. on July 1, 1925. He was number 12 of 13 children born to Chalmer and Elsie Rodman.

Bud grew with 10 sisters and one brother which involved many stories of South Dakota farming life. He went into the Navy in 1950 at 25 years old so he could get away from the farm and served in the Korean War. He was discharged in May 1954 and went to work in the Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington as a heavy equipment operator; several of his family had migrated to Washington by then. He married Irene Knudson on September 3, 1954, and they were married for 61 years. They had two children, Stephen and Gail.  

Bud was an amazing handyman who could fix anything. He enjoyed camping, gardening, boating, puzzles, and helping others. He was always willing to lend a hand.

Bud loved Jesus his Savior and was involved in many church activities throughout the years. He attended North Oak Community Church while living in Hays. After retirement, they traveled for 17 years with the Mobile Missionary Assistant Program doing building projects in various states. In 2005 they settled in Hays, Kansas to be near their daughter. Bud loved his family and enjoyed family get-togethers, especially visits when he was in the nursing home.  

Bud is survived by his son, Stephen (Brenda) Rodman of Dolan Spring, Arizona; daughter, Gail (Ron) Gallaway of Stockton; 5 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.  

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Irene; two grandchildren, Carlos and Diego Gallaway; and two brothers and 10 sisters.

Bud had a deep faith in God and touched many lives. His example of love and devotion to His Savior leaves a legacy for generations to come. A legacy that we will carry in our hearts forever.  

A Graveside Service will be held at the Stockton Cemetery on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Stockton. There will be no public visitation.

Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley Manor and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st Stockton, KS 67669.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com