Rodney Eugene Blythe

Rodney Eugene Blythe (Rod, Ronnie) entered into eternal life on Wednesday, November 12th after a long battle with prostate cancer. He showed strength and courage beyond anyone's expectation until his last breath. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to all who knew him. He is survived by his wife Shelly; children, Rod, Nicole, Brandy and Dawn; and his grandchildren, Brandon, Michael, Noah, Samantha and Cody. He is preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Lavoy ""Bubba"" Blythe. He was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on June 20, 1943, the son of Bethel Nathaniel Blythe and Frances Florene Blythe. His Uncle Ardell and Aunt Relda helped raise him and spent many years shaping him into the man that we all grew to love. Rod spent over 30 years as a Private Investigator in California. He lived and breathed his work. He was well known and well respected for the excellence in his business and enjoyed the many life-long relationships he made with his clients. A lover of sports, Rod played football as a young man in the Army and in college. He had a love of the game that continued through his lifetime coaching children and being the number one fan of his son and grandchildren, no matter what sport they were playing. He also enjoyed playing and coaching softball. His greatest passion was fishing which he enjoyed until his very last days. Rod was full of life. When he entered a room he commanded an audience. He entertained so many with his life stories, good barbeques, stiff drinks and practical jokes. He was the ""host with the most"". Rod touched so many people during his lifetime. He was a generous man always willing to lend a hand when needed. He helped many friends and family members through their life struggles and celebrated their good times. Toward the end of his life Rod was truly humbled by the many friends and family who showed their love and support for him during his battle. Services will be held on Friday, November 21st, 4:00 p.m. at Horan & McConaty, 9998 Grant Street, Thornton. A reception will be held immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rod's name to the V.A. Oncology Department or the American Cancer Society. There are so many people who come and go in our lives. A few touch us in ways that change us forever, making us better for knowing them. Rod made a difference in our lives, and for this we are truly grateful. Share your memories of Rod or condolences to the family by clicking on the ""sign guestbook"" button below.