Rodney Slade

Rodney Leroy Slade, 76, died Thursday, January 31, 2013 in Scottsdale, Arizona. A Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 9, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Red Mesa, Colo. Bishop Mark Harris will be officiating. Burial will occur at Red Mesa Cemetery.

Mr. Slade was born February 5, 1936 in Eagar, Arizona, the son of Raymond and Ruby Slade. He grew up in Eager, Ariz., Luna and Waterflow, N.M., but it was Farmington he called home. At a young age, he was ranching and raising cattle, to the point that his required school attendance was reduced by the principal to 36 days for his senior year, and still graduated high school. Rodney enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1954 and served honorably during the Korean War.

He worked in various professions; he was very proud of being a truck driver for 63 years. Rodney has won many awards in his truck driving profession in several competitions such as truck rodeos and mileage awards, including driver of the year.

Rodney’s greatest joy was helping others, spreading the gospel, visiting with complete strangers and adding to their joy for the day. He had a heart of service to others and giving to anyone in need.

Favorite quotes and parting comments he would commonly leave with those he was in contact with were, “Have the rest of the best day of your life for me…” and “What can I do to help you?”

Rodney is survived by six children, twenty-three grandchildren and thirty-five great-grandchildren and a younger sister.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

The best contribution you may make in his name is to be a friend to others – a good friend; and help those in need.

Monetary contribution may be sent to: American Cancer Society, or any Hospice organization.