Daniel Guy Rodda

Daniel G. Rodda, Sr. passed away on Friday, May 11, 2018 at Longmont United Hospital. Dan was a proud fourth generation Colorado native, born in Arvada on October 13, 1944, to Sprague Rodda and Emma Lea Brinkerhuff.

Dan’s favorite memory from his youth was working his uncle’s ranch in Gunnison. He reveled as a cowboy, and lived like one most of his life. Dan’s career was spent at IBM, and as with most executives, moved several times. It didn’t matter if he was living in Virginia, Minnesota, or Colorado, he made many friends wherever he landed. Dan’s last position with IBM was the top finance job at the Boulder site, Financial Controller. One of his family’s favorite stories was when he bought flowers for a secretary on secretary’s day when they hadn’t received them from their own boss. He was often looking out for others.

Dan loved a good story, and had plenty to tell. From his days on the ranch, to his days with IBM, he enjoyed laughing with friends. He loved horses and dogs, and enjoyed the wildlife in his own backyard, including a bobcat that had recently shown itself at his back door. He did not enjoy the woodpecker that would find its way to his home almost every summer, waking him early as it rattled the side of the house. It’s no mystery, for those who knew Dan, how he was able to make the incessant pounding stop.

Dan’s recent hobbies were refurbishing John Deere Tractors. He even drove them in parades, and took his grandchildren for rides. He had a wonderful time showing off his work.

Dan is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Robert) Rodda-Wright of Chicago; son, Daniel (Rita) Rodda, Jr. of Colorado; sister-in-law, Linda Rodda of Boise; and nephew, Joel (Julee) Rodda of Tacoma, WA. He had four grandchildren: Seth (Chelsea) Monholand of Indiana; and Devin, Bryan and Eric Wright of Chicago. Dan is preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Pamela Kay Boyd Rodda; second wife, Marie Bowman Rodda; brother, David Rodda; and many beloved dogs, including his companion Abbey, who died suddenly in November. Dan had a recent rescue pup, Molly, who is now living with his son.

We will celebrate Daniel Rodda’s life on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 from 5-8 pm at the D-Barn at 136 S. Main Street in Longmont, Colorado. Bring your favorite stories of Dan to share!

In lieu of flowers, please make donations payable to RROC (Retriever Rescue of Colorado) and mail to P.O. Box 261158, Lakewood, CO 80226.