Rodney Joseph Messick died of natural causes with his wife, Lezlee, and beloved dog, Bob Marley, at his side in his home near Zwolle on January 24, 2018. All who knew Rodney thought of him as a kind soul. This obvious character trait displayed itself in many ways. Foremost, Rodney cared deeply for his family. He and Lezlee had a truly loving relationship, working through life’s struggles and joys, always together. While Rodney and Lezlee had no children together, Rodney opened their home his heart and home to Lezlee’s son, Caleb, and Caleb’s son, Zachary. Rodney and Lezlee also often opened their home to extended winter visits by Lezlee’s parents. His heart was open to all family and friends. Rodney’s career choice as an X-ray technician gave him the opportunity to serve others for 30 years. He loved his work, the people with whom he worked, and especially the act of helping others. Rodney was highly regarded in the work place. Rodney loved nature’s beauty, adding to it by continually planting garden of beautiful flowers and trees which act as a legacy to that passion. He was born August 12, 1960 to Ivy Bud and Wally Messick in Coushatta. Both his parents and grandparents preceded him in death as well as a beloved brother-in-law, Allen Dillard. He is survived by Lezlee, his wife of 27 years; brother, Tony Messick; sister, Renee Messick Dillard; Caleb Johnson; Zachary and Nicole Johnson and their children, Zander and Stella. He especially loved in-laws, Donald and Nancy Elliott, and Jim and Linda Miller as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
July 13, 2026
