"We were so sorry to learn of Rick's death, he was a wonderful man and a good friend. We know that he is back with Claudia now and God and at peace in Heaven. Love, John and Pam Tinley Lander, Wyoming"
In loving memory of
Richard J. "Rick" Dodd
March 14, 2009
Richard Joel "Rick" Dodd, 55, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Shenandoah on Saturday, March 14, 2009. Rick was born on March 24, 1953, in Red Oak, Iowa, the son of William H. and Elsie (Nelson) Dodd. He attended the Coburg Consolidated School and Red Oak Community Schools, graduating in 1971. He also attended the University of Iowa. Rick was united in marriage to Claudia Pulley on March 12, 1976 in Shenandoah, Iowa.
The young couple made their home south of Randolph, Iowa, where he farmed with his father. Being a gifted singer, guitar player and song writer, they pulled up stakes and moved to Nashville, Tennesee, to pursue his music interests. He also worked as an inspector for the Metropolitan Housing Authority of the City of Nashville. After his wife Claudia passed away, he returned to Iowa to live near family and friends. He made his home in Shenandoah where he was a member of the Presbyterian Church. Some highlights of his time in Shenandoah were volunteering at the Sidney Rodeo, participating in the Southwest Iowa Theatre Group, working on the Wabash Trace and spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include his parents, William H. (W.H.) and Elsie Dodd of Red Oak, IA; two brothers, Steve Dodd and his wife Cindi of Fremont, NE, and Daniel Dodd of Red Oak, IA; sister, Susan Dodd Heuer of Overland Park, KS; four nieces, Stephanie Dodd of New York City, NY, Shelby Dodd of Omaha, NE, and Stacy Heuer and Megan Heuer, both of Kansas City, MO; other relatives and many friends.
Celebration of life memorial services were held on Saturday, March 21, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah. Words of comfort were given by Rev. Rick Sleyster. Memories of Rick were shared by Cindi Dodd and Julius Schaaf. Organist was Becky Hoenshel. Special music was performed by Bobette Fife, John Rogers and Rev. Rick Sleyster. Musical selections were "On Eagles Wings", "Will The Circle Be Unbroken", "Thinkin' About You", "Life Is For The Living" and "Precious Lord, Take My Hand". Attending the memory register was Janell McIntyre. Ushers were Bill Hillman and Joe Nebel. Honorary bearers were Roger Carlson, Joe Erickson, Gary Gee, Bill Hillman, Art McGinnis, Joe Nebel, Dan Peterson, John Rogers, Julius Schaaf and Mack Teachout. Inurnment was in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Shenandoah. Memorials in Rick's name are being directed to the First Presbyterian Church or to the Southwest Iowa Theatre Group. The Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Tributes
"There is no way to lessen the sorrow of losing someone so precious to you. But please remember that the Gutierrez family care very much and wish you strength and confort at this dificult time"
"I met Rick over 35 years ago at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. We became best friends almost immediately and enjoyed more good times out of class than in class. We enjoyed many a good time going to Pepe Joe's shooting pool for beer, always beating the jocks. After leaving Wartburg we still kept in touch on a regular basis. Over the years Rick and I have seen each other in Red Oak, Nashville, Milwaukee, and Eagle River, WI. I'll never forget all the good times we had. He was a best friend that will never be forgotten and I will truly miss him. My sincerest condolences go out to Rick's family and friends. Greatly missed and never forgotten. Rhine Renner Eagle River, WI"
"We were so sad to hear about Ricks passing. Our grandsons so enjoyed going out fishing with him during the summer when they were back from Dallas. We pray that God give you strength as you have said good bye to your son. It isn't easy given up a son. We've been there and God will help you as he helped us. Sincerly, Dave & Sue"
"I was Claudia's cousin and used to babysit for her. I still correspond with Virginia. I need Rick....what a great guy and great personality & such a good sense of humor. Claudia was crazy about him!! He was so good to Claudia, her Mom and then my Mom when my Mom visited them in TN. Great memories of Rick! "
"Sorry for your loss, Rick did enjoy music and entertainment. He always had a great smile and countless jokes to share with others. He also had very loving pets. Bunny and Lola would love to go on car rides and swim in the creek. In Peace,"
"I just heard the news from my brother Mike and wanted to write to you and send along my condolences. Rick was a terrific guy, a great roommate, and always was able to lift our spirits with his hearty laugh and great sense of humor. He was one of my best college friends and the stories of his adventures will live forever. I know that someplace up above, Rick has his guitar in hand, singing his song "The Pork and Bean Song" and has all of his new friends in stitches! Ken Anderson"
"My condolences to the family of Rick. I am deeply saddened to hear of his untimely death. Although I knew him so long ago and for a very short time of his life, we had many fun and memorable times together. I will miss his smile, lively spirit, and his serenades. Sincerely, Amy (Greenleaf) Payne"
"Perhaps the best part of being human is that ability to empathize and connect with others. Rick knew no strangers, he could connect at ease. His sense of humor always made me smile. And his laughter a welcome sound in the room. I offer my condolences. He will be missed. "
"Dear Family, I want to offer my condolences for your loss. Rick & I are contemporaries, having competed against each other in high school, and then having been @ UI together, as well as having seen him around our house from time to time (courting my sister). He had an infectious good humor about him that made him very easy and welcome to be around. I am very sorry to learn that he is no longer with us. Steve"
"Rick was a good friend and always fun...I will miss his sense of humor and laughter a lot. My deepest sympathy to his family and other friends at this time."