It is with a sense of eternal gratitude and love that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandpa, Roderick “Rod” Peltonen. His passing came in the same peaceful reflection that he greeted his life by.
His wife of 47 years, Donna (nee: DePiero); sons, Lucas and Russell (Char); granddaughter, Ainsley; and grandson, Tyler; could not have been more fulfilled by his selfless and compassionate presence that will forever endure.
Rod worked with the CRA for a very dedicated 38 years. His approach to a sometimes-difficult position earned him respect from many. He was a self-proclaimed paper pusher and numbers guy.
Rod would often be found cataloguing the statistics found in Strat-o-Matic baseball where he would say he felt like he was playing out the storied history of his favourite games. The sport was a passion for him beyond the pages of numbers. He took great pride in the coaching of his sons, road trips to numerous major league ballparks, and travelling to Hall of Fame induction ceremonies with his family and friends. One of those trips even brought him to the cornfields of Iowa, where he was able to play a game of catch with his two sons at the infamous Field of Dreams. Rod loved the quote, "If you build it, he will come," and lived by it earnestly.
Music was another passion of his; and it lasted for over 60 years of his life. In his high school days at Westgate, he played his Fender Jazz in such bands as the Electric Church (1967), and later Quitlam (1971). He continued to play along in his retirement years with a whole cast of garage band characters.
He also loved to share in the warmth of a blazing bonfire with his closest friends and neighbors.
Rod and his adoring wife Donna were able to travel to places they had always dreamed of visiting. They made so many lasting friendships over the course of their marriage and cannot thank their friends enough for all the memories that were made along their way.
Rod will always be remembered by his sons as a father who would travel to the end of the earth and back if it were ever needed or asked.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all of his friends and family. Rod was more than grateful for everyone's love and support during his experience with Parkinson's. A special thanks to the staff at Roseview Heritage ward, especially his “hunny” nurse, Virginia.
Rod will take with him; his years of profound wisdom, unconditional love and the great solace found in the words, "Silent waters run deep."
A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.
If so desired, donations in Rod's name can be made to the Underground Gym.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
