Rodney K. Bollman
Rodney Kurt Bollman, 67, Warsaw, died at 2:10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023.
He was born Feb. 9, 1955, in Madison, Wis., to Ruth Elaine (Kurtz) Bollman and Almon Rodney Bollman. Rodney grew up in Wisconsin and was a 1973 high school graduate from Oregon, Wis. He graduated in 1978 from Grand Rapids School of the Bible & Music where he studied music and pastoral studies. Rodney earned his bachelor’s degree from Grace College in Winona Lake, in 1986, concentrating on biblical studies and history. He was a talented musician, playing the saxophone and piano and taught himself a variety of instruments such as the clarinet and guitar. Rodney played with the Grace Saxophone Quartet as well as with the Grace Community Wind Ensemble.
Rodney married Rebekah D. Head in 1978, and they shared the next 44 years together. They were blessed with three children and later with three grandchildren. He spent six years in pastoral ministry in Wisconsin before moving to Warsaw in 1985. He was a jack of all trades, worked hard with his hands, always had a good work ethic and was handy around the house. He worked at Kosciusko Community Hospital in Warsaw as a custodian while he was in school. Rod was a familiar face and part of the Edgewood Middle School family in Warsaw as the head custodian where he earned the title of “Mr. Smiley.” He taught band at Lakeland Christian Academy and ministered by teaching music at prison and church. He served the Lord as an associate pastor at Pleasant View Bible Church in Warsaw where he was a longtime member and Sunday school teacher. More recently, he worked for Lee Contractors in restoration and painting.
He loved to enjoy God’s beauty in all thing’s nature — flowers, birds, gardening, hiking, kayaking, hunting, fishing and camping with delicious s’mores. Rod enjoyed planning trips and traveling with his family. He was fortunate to have traveled and experienced India, Russia, Argentina, Mexico and Canada. He enjoyed many trips to various national parks here in the states and if there was a lighthouse he was there. Rod loved trying different foods and always remembered what he ate in different places. He was always good for a “dad joke” and loved photography, reading, puzzles and playing games with his family. Woodworking was one of his favorite pastimes, and over the years he made something special for each of his family members. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and a friend to many. He would most want to be remembered for his faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ.
He leaves behind his wife, Rebekah D. Bollman, Warsaw; son, Rodney K. Bollman Jr., Indianapolis; two daughters, Stacey Bollman, Warsaw and Amy (John) Franklin, Warsaw; and three grandchildren, Alexa, Oakley and Isla Franklin. Also surviving are his brother, Keith (Wanda) Bollman, Warsaw; sister, Candace (Bill) Churchill, Spokane, Wash.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Pamela Armstrong.
Friends and family may visit from 3-7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.
Rodney’s life will be celebrated with a service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023, at Pleasant View Bible Church, 2782 West CR 200N., Warsaw, and officiated by Pastor Mike Hontz. A graveside service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.
Memorial donations may be directed to Pleasant View Bible Church, 2782 West CR 200N., Warsaw, IN 46580 to be designated to the Missions Fund or to the Deacons Fund.