Steve Lamar Rodig
If you were to happen upon Steve Lamar Rodig on a typical Saturday afternoon, you’d likely have found him out in his shop with the radio clicked on to his music choice of the day, his flannel sleeves rolled up neatly to the elbow, and a grease-stained tool in his hand. Whether it was working on a vintage car, crafting a piece of furniture, building something from scratch, growing plants, or fixing the various things his kids and grandkids asked for help with, Steve seemed to always be working on a project. While not in the shop he spent time engaged in exploring many of his other interests. There was always a guitar hooked up to an amp in his living room where he enjoyed playing guitar and singing, and if he wasn’t doing that, he was probably soaking up facts and information from the Discovery or Sci-Fi channel. Depending on the season, he also enjoyed cheering on the Seahawks or Mariners. He found peace and contentment in the outdoors, and his quiet, humble nature seemed to reflect that. Simplicity suited him, and while he was a man of few words, he was rich with deep thoughts, had a soft heart for people and pets, and possessed a real knack for getting things done right.
Raised by loving parents, Len and Ruth Rodig, Steve was the first born of 4 children and was known as an independent, active, compassionate boy. While Steve enjoyed a childhood full of adventures, a few defining memories are warmly preserved by his siblings. At the young age of 4 Steve hopped on his pedal bike and rode to the neighborhood shops. He parked his bike as if he was driving a car and took himself inside to chat with the local shoppers until the police, whom had been called by his frantic mother, found him and ended his little joyride. As he grew older his love of the outdoors was cultivated by many days spent hanging out at his neighbor’s farm, raising livestock while participating in a 4-H program, and cutting the asparagus that grew next to his home. Eventually, Steve joined Kennewick High School’s boys’ gymnastic team where he went to State Championships three years in a row with the rings and vaulting teams. They took 1st place in 1970.
With his childhood behind him, Steve discovered his lifelong passion for carpentry and began his career at Northwest Millworks, where he retired from. He met and married Connie, and together they had three kids: Amy, Jason, and Tandy. He bought a house in Mount Lake Terrace Washington where he continued to reside. True to his nature, he enjoyed completing many projects with his kids, baking cakes, working on cars, and building all sorts of furniture for the family home. He loved to hike, mountain climb, fish and camp. Eventually, he became a grandpa to 10 grandchildren who have vivid memories of time spent running wild around his house, playing with his pet Iguana “Stinky”, and experiencing his quiet, but present, love and affection. Steve was fortunate to later become a great grandparent to 6 great-grandchildren.
Steve was diagnosed with cancer during the summer of 2020. The chemo and radiation were successful, and he was declared cancer free in November of 2020. He had a final surgery to remove what was left of a benign mass in June of 2021 which landed him a lengthy hospital stay. Steve was truly a fighter until the end of his life. Having cancer changed a lot for Steve, and if he were here, he would likely encourage others to live an intentional, active life pursuing all of the adventures and dreams they have for themselves. His body, unfortunately, grew too tired to press on and he passed away on September 9th, 2021 at the age of 69 due to complications from pneumonia. He was surrounded by those who loved him during his last few months with us on earth and accepted the Lord into his heart. Knowing he is with Jesus and completely healed is an immense joy and comfort to many who love him. Steve wished for his physical body to be returned to the earth where it will nourish new life in nature. He will forever be loved and missed by many.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard & Ruth Rodig, as well as his grandson, Gavin Rodig. He is survived by: His firstborn daughter, Amy (Vincent) Thomas and their 3 children, Brittany, Korttany & Josiah (as well as 5 great grandchildren). His son, Jason Rodig and his 2 children, Taylor & Justin. His daughter, Tandy (Dustin) Ahlemann and her 4 children, Jordan, Devin, Aubrie & Brayden (as well as 1 great grandchild). His sisters, Tami (Rich) Sherill & Connie (James) Hoag, and brother Chris (Jodi) Rodig. His nieces and nephews, and friends as well.
A Celebration of Life Service is currently being planned to take place late Spring or early Summer of 2022.
