He was born to Earl and Sarah Jane Rodenberg on December 12, 1945 in White Township, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Brazoria County and attended schools in Sweeney, Texas. In 1968, he graduated from Texas A&M University and began a career in the United States Marine Corps that spanned 24 years. He was a Designated Naval Aviator and flew both helicopters and jet aircraft. He was a combat veteran of the Viet Nam War and Operation Desert Storm. The highlight of his military career was the honor of serving as the commander of an aviation squadron. Upon retirement from the Marine Corps, he enjoyed a second career as a commercial airline pilot.
Charlie is survived by his wife, Merlyn Ranson Rodenberg; two children, Keith Rodenberg and his wife, Anna, and Kristi Hooten and her husband, Todd; his father, Earl Rodenberg; and his sister, Lori Meyer. He also leaves behind three grandsons, Austin Rodenberg, Cole Rodenberg, and Connor Hooten. He loved being their “Papa” more than anything in this world.
Charlie will be remembered for his positive outlook on life, his witty sense of humor, loyalty to his friends, and his generosity. He was a firm believer in his faith and wished his passing to be a celebration of life.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, February 7, 2011 at Bannockburn Baptist Church, 7100 Brodie Lane. Graveside Service will follow at 3:00 p.m., at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 State Highway 195 in Killeen, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in honor of Charlie to Hospice Austin’s Christopher House, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Ste. 100, Austin, Texas 78759 or to the Capital Area Food Bank, 8201 South Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78745.
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