Nowell Rodewald

The journey began November 14, 1918, when Nowell “Bud” Rodewald entered this world at a little farm house in Watervliet, Michigan. The journey has now concluded as Bud has graduated with honors, on March 7, 2011, into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to live with Him forever. Bud enjoyed a full and wonderful life with his wife Patricia (nee Talbott) of almost 60 years. He was preceded in death by his Patty, his parents, and three younger brothers. He is survived by his children Deborah (Craig) Charles, Gregory (Kathy) Rodewald, Jeffrey (Jackie) Rodewald, Valerie (Robin) Vincek, and Lisa (Dallas) Ambrose. He will also be greatly missed by his grandchildren Jordan, Jennifer (Jay), Emily (fiancée Kendell), Megan (Andrew), Zachary (Lauren), Tyler (Nicole), Brittany (Dan), Benjamin, Heather (Tim), Aaron, Allyson, and Mariah, as well as great-grandchildren Nevaeh, Isabella, Caleb, Marek, and a fifth expected in May. Bud grew up in Bainbridge, Michigan, where he was the eldest of four boys, learning the value of a strong work ethic on a post-depression farm. He grew strong and honorably served his country, for 4½ years in the 401st Squadron of the 91st Bomb Group, outside London, England. Master Sergeant Nowell Rodewald and his crew faithfully serviced the B-17 bomber “The Qualified Quail” during World War II. Following his tour of duty, Bud returned home to marry his sweetheart, Patty. Through a tireless labor of love, Bud and Pat built their beautiful family home on Glenlord Road in Stevensville. Bud worked for the C&O Railroad in Benton Harbor for 35 years, retiring in 1983. He utilized his mechanical gifts in many ways to serve the Lord at Lakeshore Baptist Church. Bud & Pat enjoyed traveling, but mostly loved spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. For the past ten years Bud was a resident at Holland Home's Fulton Manor in Grand Rapids. Bud had a gentle, easy way about him, possessing a genuine interest for others. He was a committed husband, father, grandfather, and friend; willingly lending a hand where needed, quietly sharing God's love in his world of influence, truly making a difference. Bud will be greatly missed, but warmly remembered by those fortunate enough to have known him. “Well done, good and faithful servant!” A Celebration of Life Eternal will be held 11:30 A.M. Friday at Lakeshore Baptist Church, 5411 Cleveland Ave., Stevensville, with Rev. Gary Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Hickory Bluff Cemetery in Stevensville with graveside military rites performed by the North Berrien Military Rites Team. Friends may call from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Thursday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a gift to Fulton Manor / Holland Home of Grand Rapids, Michigan in appreciation for the tender care and love displayed by their wonderful staff for over ten years; or Disabled American Veterans.