Roderick died while doing one of his favourite things, swimming in the ocean with his two dogs.
He was born in Victoria, BC and attended school in Oak Bay. After receiving his diploma from UBC, he taught industrial education at high schools in High Level, AB, Hazelton, BC and Duncan, then as a college instructor at Camosun College, and as a private contractor. He married at age 20 and he and his first wife, Patricia, raised four beautiful children, of whom he was endlessly proud. The eldest, Jacob, wrote that Roderick was: Creative spirit. Problem solver. Visionary. Hard, hard worker. Leader. Playful spirit. Lover of outdoors. Teacher. Storyteller. Loving father. Generous. Caregiver.
A proud kilt-wearing, haggis-eating Scot, he married Marny in 2008, and found a peace and happiness that was to stay with him until his untimely death. She adds to the list: Kind. Patient. Thoughtful. Faithful. Funny. Deep. McGyver! He never let the truth get in the way of a good story. And he loved the Lord, singing and playing mandolin, cooking (especially baking), and gardening.
Roderick was predeceased by his parents Bill and Marian. He is survived by his wife of seven years, Marny; his children: son
Jacob, his wife Jessica Ouellette, grandsons Noah and Ezra; daughter Rebekah, her fiance Kevin Dorish; son Jonathan, his fiancee Tara; daughter Sophia, her husband Russell, granddaughters Blanche and Amelia. Mourning his loss are his siblings, Bryan and his wife Renee; Anne; Emily and her husband Randy; Kevin and his wife Nicole; their families, as well as extended family and oh so many friends. He touched many people with his kind words and thoughtful gestures.
Roderick’s memorial service will be held at 2 pm Saturday, June 13, at New Life Community Baptist Church, 1839 Tzouhalem Road, Duncan. In lieu of flowers, please support your local SPCA. Online condolences may be offered at www.sandsduncan.ca