On July 9, 2017, Allen Aaron Rode, ended his battle with cancer at 2:24 am at H.C.M.H. He was surrounded by his loving family and wife, Helen, of 54 years.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 15, 2017 at Zion Lutheran Church at 11 a.m. Visitation begins in the atrium at 10 a.m.

BORN: December 20, 1942 in Fredericksburg, Texas to Aaron and Helena Rode of Cherry Springs, Texas
DIED: July 9, 2017 at H.C.M.H. at the age of 74 years

BAPTIZED: January 17, 1943 in Christ Lutheran Church, Cherry Springs by Rev. Johannes Bergne
CONFIRMED: June 30, 1957 in Christ Lutheran Church, Cherry Springs by Rev. A.E. Flathmann

EDUCATION: Early school years were spent at the Cherry Springs schoolhouse. He graduated from Llano High School in 1961. He played various positions on the high school football team and was active in Student Council. He was active in 4H and FFA, receiving the Lone Star Gold Award in 1958. He also showed the Reserve Grand Champion Angus steer and Grand Champion Turkey Tom at the Houston Livestock Show.

MARRIED: Helen Louise Hannemann January 26, 1963 in Zion Lutheran Church, Fredericksburg by Rev. David Heidtke.

CHILDREN: Susan Rode Laughlin of College Station and father of their children, Kenneth Laughlin of Fredericksburg, Yvonne Rode Moody of Houston

GRANDCHILDREN: Adam Laughlin, Allen Laughlin and wife Carissa all of College Station, Amber Moody of Houston/College Station, Ashley Moody of Houston

GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN: Madison Laughlin of College Station

ALSO SURVIVED BY: One sister and two brothers: Doris and Alton Herbort, Bruce and Carol Rode, Lester Rode, brother and sister-in-law Dennis and Jodie Hannemann, brother-in-law Kenneth Lindig, and numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

PRECEDED IN DEATH BY: his parents and in-laws: Hans and Dorthy Hannemann, two half sisters: Berniece and Wilbert Seipp and Evelyn Jenschke, sister-in-law Linda Lindig, and son-in-law: Ted Moody.

CAREER: Worked for 32 years at Standard Service Company, the family owned Dodge dealership, as mechanic, parts manager, and for a number of years was the top regional salesman for Mopar Parts and Goodyear Tires. After retirement enjoyed part time work in agricultural research with AgriTech.

HOBBIES: As a lifelong rancher he raised quality cattle, grew his own hay, and was an avid hunter. He practiced land and range management and passed on techniques to children and grandchildren. He also served in many volunteer capacities at Zion Lutheran including church council president, property and worship committees and the establishment of the Little Lambs nursery program. Served as a Boy Scout leader for a number of years and was very proud of the fine young men that he was able to mentor in the Scout troop, in addition to his two grandsons who achieved Eagle Scout.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Hill Country Memorial Hospice, or the charity of one's choice.