Robert Alan Rodenhiser

Robert Alan Rodenhiser was one of seven children for Frank and Ellen (Bertram) of Malden, MA. His siblings were Betty, Frank, Arthur, Dick, Bert, and Ellie. He attended Franklin Pierce Elementary School, Salem Street Church, and Malden High. For a time after high school, Robert thought of being a minister. Church teachings learned as a young boy nurtured the extraordinary man, brother, husband, father, and counselor that he became. Continuing on after high school, Robert attended M.I.T. On June 12, 1954, Robert earned his Master of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Michigan; he also studied at K College, where he met Joan Ellen Stiles, whom he married on June 15, 1957, and welcomed Ellen Sue into the world on August 6, 1959, who precedes Robert in death. Robert served honorably in the U.S. Navy, achieving 2nd lieutenant. In the following years, Richard, Connie (Nick McAvene) and grandson Lincoln McAvene, and Jeanie joined the family. Dad's college career culminated at Wayne State University, as he received his PhD. on December 20, 1966. Family time was a priority. Dad made time for tennis, horseshoes, and ping pong. We enjoyed trips to Ludington where we learned to fish,and tobogganing excursions in the wintertime. He spent quiet moments listening to Mozart and Beethoven and reading poetry. He enjoyed the challenge of chess with his son. Robert made sketches of his family, wrote favorite quotes in calligraphy, and took countless photographs of his wife and children. Dad was a person of infinite optimism and strength. He epitomized persistence. One of Dad's favorite quotes was by Winston Churchhill; "Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never--in nothing, great or small, large or petty--never give in, except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force. Never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy." Words fascinated Dad. He remained a lifelong learner who enjoyed wordplay, puns, and puzzles. Robert was the first pick for games like Pictionary and Trivial Pursuit. Robert knew just the right words to say at any moment. But even more importantly, Dad was a great listener. He was a man of words and was always true to his word. Dad was always very humble and genuine. These qualities earned friends that lasted a lifetime. He was very fun to be around. In later years, Dad gave back to his community as president of the Kalamazoo chapter of Kiwanis from 1992--2007. The Golden K's mission of transferring relationships from a material to a spiritual plane was one many that held instant appeal for Dad. Wherever he was, Dad was all about bringing people together. Either at a baseball game on Clinton street, or an anticipated reunion in Malden with family, watching his children's sports teams, helping a couple pick up the pieces by connecting better, having lunch with coworkers, or sharing a drink, Dad always strived for togetherness: he was the glue. Dad gave freely of his time, and faithfully saw the good in others. His life's work is summed up well by one of Dad's favorite's quotes by Shakespeare: "The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath. It is twice blessed: It blesseth him that gives and him that takes." Laid to rest at Mt. Home Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Robert Alan Rodenhiser lived an exemplary life filled with kindness and service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to K College Portage District Library Prince of Peace Lutheran Church or WMU School of Medicine.