TRAVERSE CITY - Rodney L. Rice, age 71, passed away on February 2, 2018 in Traverse City Michigan.
Rod was born March 10, 1946 in Manistee County and spent his early years in Grawn. After high school he joined the Army and was stationed in South Korea.
Rod worked many years for Grand Traverse County and upon retirement he and his wife Marilyn bought the Karlin Inn. Rod enjoyed many years tending to his customers and retired a second time to do what he loved most, hunting and fishing. He also spent many days at his property in Interlochen taking care of his deer while doing a little farming.
Rod loved a good card game and enjoyed spending time with his brother Roger.
His family and many friends will remember him as a quiet man with a helpful heart, always willing to help someone in need.
Rod is survived by his wife, Marilyn and his two sons; Doug (Ricardo), and Tim (Nancy), grand-daughter, Cari Jane and step-grandchildren, Amber, Jaime, Eric and Macy. He is also survived by his brother, Roger (Carol) Rice, sister, Yvonne, brothers-in-law, Ray (Betty) Reamer, Bob (Bette Lou) Reamer, and sisters-in-law, Rosie (Ray) Duell, Doris Rodes and sister-in-law, Laura Reamer and several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Elery Rice and Glennagene Amidon, his sister, Yvette, brother-in-law's; Ralph Reamer and James Rodes.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, aides, and healthcare professionals for their generous care during Rod's final days.
A visitation for Rod will take place from 2:00 – 3:00 pm on Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a memorial service beginning at 3:00 pm. Tom Shelder will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Grand Traverse Veterans Affair, 2650 Lafranier Road, Traverse City, MI 49686 or Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E Traverse Hwy #1155, Traverse City, MI 49684.