Rodney “Rod” Stickels, age 57 of Porter, Ind., passed away Sunday, October 2, 2011 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born December 26, 1953 in Gibson City, IL. On February 14, 1997 he married Shari Stickels, who survives of Porter.

Rod is also survived by his mother, Irene J. Stickels-Schaefer of Gibson City, Ill.; sons, Matt (Julia Clark) Stickels of Elmhurst, Ill., Mitchell (Felicia) Aaron of Valparaiso and Chris Stickels; beloved daughter, Madison Rose Stickels (Daddy’s little girl) of Porter; brother, Tom (Linda) Stickels of Champaign, Ill.; niece, Adrianne Snider of Fort Reilly, Kansas; grandchildren, Jayden and Aubrey Aaron, Sean Stickels; and many loving friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Edward Stickels and sister Jill.

Rod worked as a Sales Representative for Beaver Research Company. He was a member of First Christian Church in Gibson City, Ill.

Rod enjoyed fishing, golfing and spending time with family and friends. He was an avid fan of the Bears, Nascar and the Cubbies.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind., with Pastor Ed Taylor officiating.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 3:00 p.m. Cremation will be performed by Heritage Crematory, Portage, Ind.

Memorial contributions may be made to the VNA Hospice Center of Porter County, or to the family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.EE-FH.com

Posted 10/4/2011