Obituary of Ira Rodney

Ira Rodney, age 82, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on April 10, 2018 at his home in Tres Pinos, California. Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Irving and Irene Rodney, he is survived by children Nicole Rodney and Christopher Rodney, Laurene Iammatteo Rodney (daughter-in-law), Brandon Rodney (grandson), Jack and Mary Rodney (brother and sister-in-law). Also grieving are his beloved late in life partner, Carol Lausten, her two children Hudson Tropf and Jessica Walker, Josh (Jessica’s husband), grandchildren Torri, Wiley, and Finley Walker, and his beloved dog, Sadie. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Pyle Rodney; long term partner, Diane Morang; and dearly loved brother Stanley.

One of Ira’s greatest passions was baseball. As a young man he played for Brooklyn College and was signed with the NY Giants. A fastball shattered his elbow and his dream of playing baseball. He remained a fan of the San Francisco Giants. Ira served in the Army in Germany for two years. While in Europe he discovered the World’s Fair in Brussels and his talent as a photographer.

Ira raised his family in Tuxedo, NY, where he served on the volunteer fire department and ambulance corps. Ira had a long and varied career. He worked as a stockbroker on the American Stock Exchange for over 25 years. He co-owned and ran a deli in Queens, sold cutting-edge Japanese office technology, drove a limousine in NYC and the NY metropolitan area, and was a licensed massage therapist.

The last decade and a half of his life was spent far from his New York roots. He moved to Hollister California in 2003 and fell in love with Carol. With her, Ira was introduced to horses, rodeos and the beauty of California. Ira will be remembered as a loving father, brother, grandpa; a wonderful partner, and loyal friend. He was a lover of art, music, baseball, politics and comedy. Ira remained young at heart. A man with a sharp wit and love of life, he was singing up until the morning of his last day.

*** Memorial Service: Sunday, May 27, from 12:00 noon - 6:00 pm. San Benito County Historical Park, 8300 Airline Hwy, Tres Pinos, California 95075 ***