Rodney Dean Schroder

Rodney “Rod” Schroder, age 80, of Sibley, IA, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at his home in Sibley, IA.

A Private Graveside Service for the family will be held at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery, with Pastor Ben Weirsma officiating.

A public memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 7th, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Jurrens Funeral Home of Sibley, following the Private Graveside Service.

Rodney Dean Schroder was born on February 16, 1945, in Sibley, IA, the son of Delbert and Helen (Beving) Schroder. He grew up in Sibley and attended school there, and later graduated from Sibley High School in 1963.

In December of 1986, Rod was united in marriage to Julie Coyier.

Rod owned and operated Schroder Auto Sales for a time, and during that time, he was also a co-owner of Sioux River Water Slide of Sioux Falls, SD. After that, he worked as a Car Salesman for Horton Chevrolet, Classic Chevrolet, and then Jeddeloh’s in Sibley. After retirement, he worked for Duane Vande Hoef at Bosma Water and Jim Dekkenga remodeling Subway restaurants. Rod was extremely handy and was very attentive to detail. He always looked forward to annual motorcycle trips with his friends to the Black Hills.

He built many Street Rods, building his first one in 1979. This hobby earned him the name “Grandpa Hot Rod”. He loved to watch Drag and Sprint Car Racing. Rod was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears. He was known as a grill master by his family and friends. He had a real sense of humor and did a great “Goat Boy” impression.

Left to cherish Rod’s memory is his wife of 39 years, Julie Schroder; his children, Heather Schroder, Jonathan (Meridythe) Schroder, and Justin Schroder; step children, Matthew ( Molly) Helmers, and their children Claire, Grace, George “Artie”; Betsy (Bryan) Burkhardt, and their sons, Harrison and Cohen; one brother, Tom (Janet) Schroder; nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert and Helen Schroder; brother, Gordon Schroder; and sister, Roberta Kuerbs.