Rodney L. Anderson
December 14, 2025
Rodney L. Anderson, 71, of Bel Aire, Kansas, passed away on December 14, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, remembered for his loyalty, honesty, and unwavering love for his family.
Rod was a long-time employee of the Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, retiring as Director of Supply Chain Management in 2008. In retirement, he enjoyed following KU basketball with his best friend, Linden; traveling with his wife; home maintenance projects; and fishing with his grandchildren. He had a sharp mind, a love for reading, astronomy, and philosophy. He had a keen interest in technology and trends. Those who knew him also fondly remember his integrity, steadfast character, and great sense of humor.
Rod was married for 50 years to his wife, Connie, who was his true complement and constant companion. He is also survived by his children and seven grandchildren, who were a source of pride and immense joy in his life.
His legacy of love, candor, and humor will be remembered by all who knew him.
Rosary will be at 6:30 pm, Thursday, December 18, 2025; Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Friday, December 19, 2025, both at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church where Rod was a faithful parishioner.
Preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Wilma Anderson; brother, Kenneth Anderson.
Survived by his wife, Connie Anderson of Bel Aire, KS; son, Christopher Anderson of Wichita; daughter, Bethany (James) Pearson of Overland Park, KS; grandchildren, Anna, Will, Ben, Drew, Emily, Kate, and Elle; brothers, Kirk (Tempa) Anderson, Mike (Linda) Anderson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with: St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1321 N. Stratford Ln., Wichita, KS 67206; Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East
Thank you for being my rock, Dad.
Services
Rosary: Thursday, December 18, 2025 6:30 pm
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
1321 N. Stratford
Wichita, KS 67206
316-683-6569
Funeral Mass: Friday, December 19, 2025 10:00 am
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
1321 N. Stratford
Wichita, KS 67206
316-683-6569
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Rodney L. Anderson 's name.
Samaritan's Purse
P.O. Box 3000
Boone,
NC
28607
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
1321 N. Stratford
Wichita,
KS
67206
Memories Timeline
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My thoughts about cousin Rod go back over 60 years.
Our families did many things together for as long as I can remember. Rodney got along
with all of his cousins ,aunts, and uncles and was very much loved by his parents.
We had many fish fry’s.
We swam and skied at the lake.
We had picnics .
We all went to Watson park once to fish and when Rodney cast his pole he snagged a big one ! Unfortunately it was me he snagged in my hair . Off we went to our parents to get the hook out while we all laughed at his big catch .
As the years went by I remember him graduating high school. I remember him getting married . I remember him having his children. Chris and Bethany were the apple of his eye! His parents were over the moon happy for him. My parents were thrilled for him as well.
I will miss our texts to each other.Rodney made sure I was ok after losing the last member of my family by staying in touch . Our last text was Thanksgiving of this year .
Had I known it would be our last communication I would have told him that I loved him.
Rest in peace Rod. You were a
good person🩵
He was an awesome leader and we had many deep discussions, played golf together and enjoyed each others support managing the business together, he will be missed!
What a loyal friend we’ve lost. So many special times to remember with Rod and Connie. We didn’t see each other often in the last years but it always made me smile to think of these wonderful people and it always will. Rod was an exceptional man, faithful to the Lord, his family, his friends– rock solid to the core. To say he will be missed is a great understatement. Dear Connie, we send our love and sincere prayers for comfort to you and all the family.
Rod was a great guy to work with. He will be missed. Prayers for his family.
Connie,
I’m so sorry to read about Rod’s death. You two had 50 years together! Please know you and your precious family are in my prayers.