James Rode

James Arthur Rode, lovingly known to many as “Jar”, passed away unexpectedly and far too soon on February 6, 2023 at the at of 41.  James was born to Dennis and Pamela Rode on October 3, 1981 in Fairmont, Minnesota. 

Following high school James continued to work for his dad at The Bosshart Company, but eventually his hard work, dedication and passion to focus on decorative concrete led him to his own endeavors.  He was talented and had the eye to create beautiful outdoor spaces for his clients with personal touches. He later founded and operated Fieldstone Services and Floorcoat Midwest. 

While James’ work was important to him, nothing compared to his greatest treasure – his family.  James, Roz & their boys enjoyed many adventures together from skiing and snowmobile trips, golfing and traveling with a huge trip out West last summer in which a close encounter with a bear left him James feeling thankful he had packed the bear spray!  They attended church regularly and it wasn’t uncommon for him to sneak into the pew a couple minutes late after supporting the church donut fundraiser every Sunday!  James was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran in Truman and continued his faith with his family at Hosanna Church in Mankato.

He loved to stay busy and worked hard, which started at a young age.  He loved playing hockey and attending Wild games, being outdoors riding UTVs hard and fast and he could easily put 100+ miles on his snowmobile in a day just because he could.  He passed on his love for motors and speed to his boys who quickly followed in his footsteps at young ages. 

His giant personality, humor and huge heart which he wore on his sleeve, will forever be remembered by all those that loved him.  He loved pulling pranks on people and rolled with laughter when successfully executed.  He was not afraid to be present in the kitchen and was the baker for the family; whipping up an apple pie or cookies mostly because he loved to eat it himself!

Although his family finds some comfort in memories and knowing he is in heaven, James’ passing has left a void that no one can fill.  Left to celebrate his memory are his loving wife Rosalyn “Roz” Rode; sons, Easton and Kyler; parents Dennis & Pam Rode; sister, Emily (Kyle) Langer, niece Livie Langer, mother-in-law Alisha Barnett; sister-in-law Anna Randall, niece Jacqi Peterson; nephew Alex (Hannah) Peterson; 5 great-nieces and nephews; and countless other friends and family.

James was proceeded in death by grandparents Art & Elaine Rode, George & Ruth Caswell; Lee & Geneva; aunts Marlys Ehlert & Lori DeBuhr, and his father-in-law Perry Rosenbrook.