Rodney Lynn Draayer, 67

Published 10:24 am Thursday, August 8, 2013

Rodney Lynn Draayer, 67, passed away peacefully at his home on Aug. 5, 2013.

Rodney Draayer

Rodney Draayer

At Rod’s request, services will not be held. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Rod was born May 22, 1946, in Alberta Lea, Minn., to John and Arlene Draayer. He was the oldest of four children, raised in Austin, Minn. Rod graduated from Blooming Prairie High school in 1964, where he was active in sports. In 1965, he enlisted in the Navy, where he served two tours in Vietnam. Rod was a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion. He served as Commander at the American Legion for one year.

Email newsletter signup

He married Carolyn Parker-Lenahan on Aug. 10, 1975, in Loose Park, Kansas City, Mo. He loved spending time with friends at the “round table” and teasing the servers at Waffle House. He enjoyed his Man Cave where he tinkered with his tractors and dump truck. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and his pets. He was always willing to lend a hand and offer his support when needed. Rod liked to do things his way, and lived a full and genuine life.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; three children, Heath Lenahan and wife Donna, Kim Draayer and fiancé Jason Brown, and Christian Draayer; seven grandchildren, Jason, Ashleigh, Miranda, Elaina, Elissa, Kaddin and Storm; two great-grandchildren, Dominick and Daniel; sisters Pam Erickson (Brian) and Beverly Nordby (Dave); and brother Kent Draayer (Kay). He will be greatly missed by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the caregivers at Southern Care Hospice for their compassion and assistance.