RODENHISER

Age 95, of Bridgewater. It is with sadness that our family announces the passing of Ivan Edward Rodenhiser at home, with his wife by his side. Born in Bridgewater, Ivan was the son of the late, Morris and Eva (Hirtle) Rodenhiser. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Shirley Elaine (Gardner); son, David (Nancy), and daughters, Vicki-Lynn (Paul) and Jo-Anne Ferrier; grandchildren, Alex (Sarah), Kate (Bex), Brandan (Robyn), Cale (Julia), Ryland (Agnes), Alexis (Ryan); great-grandchildren, Finley, Sophie, Oscar; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Valson, Aubrey, Bruce, Ralph, Don, Morris, and Roger; and sisters, Olive, Angela, and Joan. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Ivan started work at Canada Post, in 1947, as a postal clerk and retired in 1985 as Zone Postmaster, supervising seven offices along the South Shore, and overseeing postal services to the rapidly expanding population in Bridgewater, including the establishment of letter carrier service, in 1971. He was a member of the Canada Post Santa Letter Writing Program. On his retirement, he received the Government of Canada medallion.

Outside of work, he was very active throughout the community for many years. As a member of Bridgewater United Church, Ivan was an Elder and Secretary of the Official Board for over 35 years, a long-time choir member, and he also served on many committees as a member of South Shore Presbytery. He was an active member of the Bridgewater Fire Department for 43 years, and secretary for 25 years. He also served with the West Nova Scotia Regiment Militia as S/Sgt Quartermaster (C.D.).

Ivan's other volunteer work was extensive, including Chairperson of the Lunenburg County Crimestoppers, Director of the Lunenburg Crime Prevention Board, a Boy Scout leader, a member of the Bridgewater 100th Anniversary Committee, and he chaired the Fire Department's 125th year Anniversary Committee. He held various committee roles at Bridgewater Golf Club, delivered Meals-On-Wheels, and was a member of the Post Office Retirees Group. In recognition of his outstanding volunteer work, he was awarded the Provincial Volunteer Award for the year 2000 and later received the Queen's 50-year Jubilee Medal. His hobbies included woodworking, tole painting and stamp collecting, and he was a member of the South Shore Stamp Club.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sweeney's Funeral Home in Bridgewater, where visitation will take place on Friday, June 13th, from 6 - 8pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Bridgewater United Church, on Saturday, June 14th, at 2pm, with Rev. Neil McEwen officiating. A public reception will be held immediately following the service in the church gymnasium. Private interment held at Brookside Cemetery. Donations in Ivan's memory can be made to the Bridgewater United Church, the Bridgewater Fire Department, the VON or charity of your choice.

The family wishes to acknowledge, with sincere thanks, the caring and professional support that they received from EHS responders, members of the Bridgewater Police Department, the VON, and the Medical Staff at the SSRH Emergency Department. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to Rev. Neil McEwen for navigating our family with empathy, care and guidance during the significant loss of Ivan's passing.