Rodney Edward Bennett

Rodney Edward Bennett passed away peacefully at Seton Age Care, Calgary on May 31, 2025 at the age of 64 surrounded by his loved ones.

Over the years Rodney tried his hand at many different jobs. Some of them included working for the Sunset Drive In Theatre in various positions including running the projector. Love Feeds where they gave him the run of the place when he worked the night shift, surveying pipe for the oilfield and Mountain View Cemetery as a grave digger. He worked at Neil Thompson Tractor which instilled in him a desire to drive semi-trucks, thereby striving to get his Class 1 driver’s license, after which he went on to drive for Dumas Sand and Gravel and then his father. Rodney enjoyed reliving these memories with his stories.

Rodney went to Mount Royal College where he took a course in journalism and radio announcer. This took him to KEZE Rock 106FM in Spokane where he was known as Rockin Rod. A name that stuck with him. Journalism gave him the ability to write of his life experiences, and memories he had with his papa, uncles and cousins, and continued to do so right up to his passing. 

Rodney had a passion for old cars. He had many Hot Rods over the years. He was a proud member of various car clubs and enjoyed going to as many Show and Shine exhibits as he could. He also enjoyed building model cars which he did with much precision to every detail. 

After his accident in November of 1983, he beat all odds . With strength and determination he was able to walk again, drive a vehicle and work as a dispatcher and load broker. His determination and zest for life will be remembered by all who loved him. NEVER SAY NEVER. 

As life changed for Rodney, he moved into a care home where his passion became going to the gym. He loved those outings and would boast about how many weights he pushed or how long he was on the stepper. He never stopped trying and always wanted to get stronger. The day before his passing, he asked the doctor if he could get back to the gym on Monday.

Rodney never complained about his life. He was more interested in making sure everyone else was okay. He was truly grateful when someone helped him and made sure he thanked these special people. He loved his family with all his heart, especially his nieces and nephews. 

Remember Rodney when you think of the Lord’s Prayer. He would recite this when someone was going through a tough time or traveling and sending angels to be among us. Rodney’s journey was of sweetness and much sorrow. He led life with patience (as much as possible) humor, courage and grace. His wish would be for us to remember his courage and live life to the fullest. 

Rodney is survived by his sisters, Cynthia Ritchie, Colleen Bennett-Aru (Mike) and Valerie McMcMaster (Dave), many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Also by his special friends, Brian of Garrison Green, Dan who he enjoyed many car shows with and Darlene who has been a constant companion for him for many years. 

Rodney was predeceased by his parents Donald and Shirley (Hergenhein) Bennett, two brothers Ricky and Donnie Bennet and brother-in-law Douglas Ritchie, his two cats Boo-boo and Mikey. 

Rodney is greatly missed and will always be remembered in many different lights. Till we meet again Big Brother, love you always and forever.

We got this kiddo XXOO.

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