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Roderick Barret Atwood, aged 52 of Wilseyville, California passed away on February 6, 2024, surrounded by his devoted and deeply caring family. Rod, to his family and friends, was born in Mission Hills, California to Emil Elvin Atwood and Juanita Celia Alvarado. He attended South Bay Christian Academy in San Jose, California, and graduated from Stockton Christian School in Stockton, California. In addition, he attended college at Christian Life College, where he studied religion, and Delta College, where he obtained a degree in Civil Engineering and completed the fire academy. Our master of all trades, Rod spent countless hours educating himself far beyond the classroom, becoming an entrepreneur in a multitude of ways. To highlight a few: he managed a roller skating rink, owned a successful videography studio, and above all, was a skilled builder. In 2018, Rod designed and completed his dream build for his family and all his loves, be they four-legged or two. The result was a 5600-square-foot custom off-grid home, located in Wilseyville, California. He started with 60 acres of trees, a river, and a vision. Rod acquired a tractor, taught himself how to operate it, and began clearing for a road. The intricate build encompassed a self-designed solar system and a self- generating well system. Throughout the build and beyond, he welcomed family and friends on what is affectionately now known as The Ranch. Rod’s door was always open to those in need; therefore, The Ranch became home to many. Because of its beauty and serenity, it is where he chose to marry his beloved Sally. Together, they planned an intimate wedding that took place on June 23, 2023, at The Ranch, where they lovingly lived out the rest of his days. Beach or mountains, The Ranch or afar, Rod was most at home in the time he spent with God. His faith and love for our Father impacted and inspired all those he met. He walked a path of righteousness and prayed for the same for everyone. Rod spent his free time in multifaceted ways; he was an avid musician – ranging from classical piano to rockin’ the bass, drums, guitar and/or the mic. He was an adventurer – a skier, a skilled marksman, an occasional golfer, and king of his kitchen. Much to her amused chagrin, his wife quickly learned anything less than a perfectly palatable meal would swiftly be sent back to her in their kitchen “Gordon Ramsay style.” Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Rod would agree that anything he set his mind to, he achieved, with the very highest standard of excellence. Rod had a great talent for impersonation. He could imitate another’s behavior, expressions, and voice brilliantly. Always bringing joy and laughter. His genuine laughter, smile, and the warm twinkle in his eyes lit up every room; they needed no words. Those blessed to know him best only needed a nod from across the room or to lock eyes with Rod to understand exactly what was on his mind and/or heart. He was a brother in arms, a friend, a mentor, and a surrogate father to many. However, by far, Rod’s most outstanding achievement was raising his children. He was an exceptional father. Rod’s father taught him the principle of the three p’s… Protect, Provide, and Prepare. He upheld them every moment of his life and continues to do so. Rod’s dedication as a father was unparalleled, and together, with his mother, was an integral part of homeschooling his children. He carefully chose a wholly centered curriculum that included culinary, martial arts, music, and an in-depth knowledge of the word of God. Most recently, he had been devoted to seeing them excel in their final years of high school. Rod loved a good old-fashioned family game night – long hours were spent playing dominos, hand-milled and self-created Sleep on the Couch, and Uno. There were no easy wins with Rod. Skill and a quick mind were required to take him out of pole position. He gave the very greatest gift of time to his family and loved nothing more than being together and fully present. Not knowing they would be his last, Rod spent the most recent years joyfully living life to its fullest. He took a cross-country trip in his motor home with his children, spending quality time visiting family and friends. He traveled to several destinations with his wife Sally, their children, and close family friends, seeing new sights and experiencing new adventures, often dancing the days and nights away. Be it around the kitchen island, or in the motor home, he was always ready to drop a beat. Rod’s loyalty to his family was unmatched. Although all those whose lives he touched will mourn his loss, his legacy and love will be passed on through his adoring wife Sally Anne Atwood, his three children who were his pride and joy, Lauryn Nicole, Karina Isabel, and Jonathan Michael; his stepson, Riley Hagen Oliveira (Kimberly); his brother Steven (Patricia) of La Grange; two nieces Aubree and Natalee; his aunt Lucy Castro; his mother-in-law Sandra Rowland and his innumerable extended family and friends. A Celebration of Rod’s Life, graveside farewell, and repast will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 21st, 2024, at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 North Soderquist Road, Turlock, California in the Main Chapel. The repast will be held following the graveside farewell on the North Lawn. The Atwood family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the kind thoughts, prayers, and support that have been offered.

Tributes

Roderick Barret Atwood

September 10, 1971 - February 6, 2024