Rodney Lee Berry

Rodney Lee Berry, aged 77, passed away on December 29, 2024, in Battle Ground, Washington with his wife Cherry at his side. Born in Vancouver, Washington on February 8, 1947, Rodney was known for his outgoing and humorous personality, always ready to lend a helping hand. He adored babies and little kids, was dedicated to his family, and was always quick to make a joke. Everyone who met him was an instant friend. 

Rodney grew up on China Ditch Road and attended Hockinson and Battle Ground schools through his junior year. He graduated from Fort Vancouver High School in 1965, then proudly enlisted to serve in the United States Navy. When he returned from Vietnam, he quickly married his sweetheart on December 13, 1969. He began his career at Nicolai Door, working alongside lifelong friends Roy Gaul and Joe Hansen, before attending Clark College and transitioning to Freightliner where he retired as a skilled machinist.

An active member of Messiah Lutheran Church, Rodney participated in numerous community and church activities. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing, playing softball, bike riding, and woodworking. These pastimes reflected his love of the outdoors and provided joyous memories shared with family and friends. His son Jeffrey notes that all the years spent hunting and camping with his dad and watching his helpful, gregarious nature has carved out the person he is today—with his similar love of being in the mountains, dedication to helping others, and his ease of chatting up anyone he meets. Daughter Karen recalls that he never missed attending her sporting events growing up, and he was the fastest runner on their adult co-ed softball team. She misses their bike rides and golf outings. She also remembers the time he drove all the way to her house at midnight just to capture a large spider in her bathroom.  

Rodney is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Cherry Lee Berry; daughter, Karen Laksamana (Neil); son, Jeffrey Berry (Chauna); grandson, Kriss Berry (Moriah); granddaughter, Macie Laksamana; great-grandsons, Aiden, Edmund, and Damien Berry; and brother, Rodger Berry. “Papa” Rodney is also remembered by many cherished nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, Neil Berry and Leah Casey, and younger brother, Randey Berry.

A commitment ceremony with military honors will be held at 12:45pm on January 17 at Willamette National Cemetery, where his ashes will be interred. A Patriot Guard processional to the cemetery will begin in Battle Ground at 11am in the Albertson's parking lot, for anyone wanting to take part. A memorial service will take place at 11am the following day, January 18, at Messiah Lutheran Church. All are welcome to attend either service to help his family celebrate Rodney's life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, where he spent time volunteering, or to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. Cherry gently cared for him during his 12-year battle with frontotemporal dementia and she will miss him forever. Rodney's legacy of kindness, humor, and loyalty will be deeply missed and forever treasured by all who knew him.