Vernon L. Rodewald

Vernon L. Rodewald, 93, passed away on November 18, 2021, at the St. James Living Center.

He was born on December 9, 1927, in Columbia, Illinois, to Ella Kuehne and Bill Rodewald. He worked for his grandfather's grain elevator as a teen and before taking a job as foreman with Luhr Brothers at the age of nineteen. During his career with Luhr Brothers, he managed projects for the Army Corps of Engineers along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.

He then went into business for himself. He owned and managed various ventures including real estate and oyster farming along the Gulf Coast. He moved to Rolla, Missouri, where he owned a car wash and managed rental properties. He was a certified reflexologist and received great satisfaction helping people in his practice.

Vernon’s business integrity was important to him. He knew how to make a good deal, but also wanted it to be an honest and fair one. Vernon grew up during the depression and was familiar with hard times. Those years were very formative for him and, when he was able to do so, he helped others who were struggling and just needed an opportunity to help them weather their storms.

Vernon had many interests. He enjoyed flying and had a private pilot’s license. He was a master gardener. His home was a showplace of beautiful flowers, abundant vegetables, and delicious fruit. At the age of 78, he began piano lessons and enjoyed learning about music – an interest he hadn’t had time or opportunity to pursue until then.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Mattie; grandson, Scott Reichert; great-grandson, Scott Jr.; great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn; and two great-great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sharon Reichert. He will be missed by his family and friends.

No Services are planned at this time.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, MO.

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