Rodney J. “Rod” Gavin
- Obituary
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Rodney J. “Rod” Gavin, age 77, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on December 29, 2024, at home. Per Rod’s wishes, there will be no services held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rod’s family.
Rod was born on November 6, 1947, in Monticello, IA, a son to Oscar and Rita (Dunne) Gavin. He was a good man who possessed a big heart. Rod was an AirForce veteran. He spent his working years wearing different hats along the way. He spent some time with John Deere, owned and operated a NutriSystem franchise, managed carpet cleaning services, operated Comet Shoe Service, Head Chef at Assisi Village-Stonehill and assisted with yearly road inspections for the Iowa DOT, to name a few. Most recently he volunteered with the St. Stephen’s Food Pantry. All who knew and loved Rod were keenly aware that his most enjoyable way to spend his hours was helping others. His involvement with the Friday Community Meal at St. Patrick’s in Epworth was surely on the top of his list.
Rod also enjoyed visiting and catching up with family and friends when time allowed. He never met a stranger and was blessed to make countless friends throughout his 77 years. He enjoyed teasing others and sharing a witty remark.
Those left to cherish the memory of Rod include his friend and companion, Donna Brown, Dubuque, IA; his mother, Rita Gavin, Cascade, IA; his siblings Thad (Linda) Gavin, Coralville, IA, Corlas (Bob) Bildstein, Dubuque, IA, Randy (Brenda) Gavin, Cascade, IA, Clay (Diane) Gavin, Cascade, IA, Brian (fiancé Laura Boeckenstedt) Gavin, Manchester, IA, DaRae (Kevin) Coughlin, Cross Plains, WI, and Amy Vorwald, Dyersville, IA;
He is also survived by his Godson and friend Jim Hauber along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Rod was preceded in death by his father, Oscar J. Gavin and his brother, Eric J. Gavin.
Online condolences may be shared with Rod’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com
Per Rod’s wishes, there will be no services held.
We are so sorry for your loss. Don and I just ran into Rod a month ago at Silkers in Epworth we had a nice visit with him. He was always kind, loved to share stories and loved helping others. Sending prayers to his loved ones.
I wish Rod’s family my deepest sympathy on his passing. I worked with him at the Community Meal in Epworth and enjoyed his leadership that he showed as he worked with our team. May God give him Rest now from his physical ailments, and Peace as well. My prayers are with the family as they gather these next sad days. May God bless you with His Presence at this time.
Enjoyed working with Rod on Friday meals projects. Went on many adventures with Rod. He will be missed.
Our deepest sympathy to Rod’s family on his passing. We worked with him on Epworth’s Community meals and definitely learned a lot. He was a very generous person with his time and giving back to the community. A great storyteller who will be missed. It will take a lot to fill his chair. Rest in peace, Rod