Rod Kjarum, 62, died unexpectedly of a heart attack at his home in Castle Rock, CO on Tuesday Oct. 12, 2010.

Rod was born and raised in Austin, graduating from Austin High School in 1966. As with so many Austinians, he worked at Hormel while living in Austin. He went on to graduate from Mankato State College in 1972 with a degree in special education. Rod pursued his passion of educating and coaching for more than 30 years in Waterloo, Iowa.

This past summer, Rod enjoyed time in Birchwood, WI, with his wife, daughters and in-laws enjoying time with his mother-in-law, Shirley. Rod had a special bond with his son-in-laws: Brent and Cliff; mother-in-law, Shirley and brother and sister in-law, Scott and Barb. Rod was also able to spend time with his parents Ken and Harriet and sisters Roxanne and Candy at the Kjarum family homestead in Hovland as well. It was nostalgic of childhood summers spent up in the woods and much reminiscing and fun was had by all.

Rod is survived by his wife of 41 years, Nancy (Hintermeister) Kjarum; daughters: Darcy (Brent) Hendricks and Dara (Cliff) Flowers; his beloved grandchildren: Lillie and Elise Hendricks and Carson and Cooper Flowers, all of Colorado; parents, Ken and Harriet Kjarum of Pine City; sisters: Cindy Kjarum, Roxanne Kjarum and Candy Jackson all formerly of Austin and aunt Lucille Kjarum, currently of Austin.

Rod and his wife Nancy shared a happy and fulfilled life with family and friends and he will be missed by all whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life was held at New Hope Presbyterian Church, CO, attended by his wife, daughters, parents, sisters, cousins, and well loved family of in-laws. Many Waterloo, Iowa and Colorado friends were also in attendence.

Memorials may be directed to the Rod Kjarum Memorial Fund Girls Softball in care of The Waterloo Optimist Club P.O. Box1032 Waterloo Ia. 50704.