On April 2, 2021, Rodney (Rod) M. Zugelder moved to a joyous, pain free life in the presence of Christ in Heaven while surrounded by his loving family.
Rod grew up in Kansas City, Kansas and loved telling stories of his childhood growing up on Sandusky. He attended Wyandotte High school, before moving to Pleasanton, KS. He loved living the country life and racing his 1951 black Chevy truck before he graduated from Pleasanton High School in 1972. He was well known in both communities.
In his life, he worked in a variety of finance careers, but his favorite job was being a grandfather. "Papa" Rod loved taking trips with his grandchildren, spoiling them at every opportunity possible.
Rod was a Mason/Shriner and Past Master of Shawnee Lodge #54 and was currently the Outer Guard of Abdallah Shriners. He's been part of these philanthropic fraternities for more years than can be remembered.
The most significant event of Rod's life was coming into a living relationship with Jesus Christ. It radically changed his outlook and direction of his life. He was passionate about helping others find their way to Christ.
Rod was preceded in death by his parents Norma (Mizer), Raymond Zugelder, and daughter, Amy Zugelder.
He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Sandy Zugelder, son Christopher Zugelder (Mindy), son Eric Zugelder (Angela), son Eli Forester (Megumi), daughter Kelly Forester, and grandchildren Nicolas, Makenzie, Alyssa, Zander, and Iris.
The visitation will be Monday, April 5, 2021 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, at Porter Funeral Home, 1835 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, KS. The funeral service, including a Masonic section, will be at 10:00am, Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at Porter Funeral Home. Burial to follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Kansas City, KS.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Breakpointe Community Church, 10001 W. 88th Street, Overland Park, KS 66212 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, Abdallah Shriners, 5300 Metcalf Ave., Mission, KS 66202.
"And that's when the fight started."