Roderick "Rod" William Place

Roderick William Place, 93, of Lawton, passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.

He was born July 25, 1930, in Alma, Michigan, to Sarah and Clarence Place. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister and one brother.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years; Barbara Farris, five children; Patrick (Robin) of Statesville, North Carolina, Andy (Cindi) of Boyne City, Michigan, Betsy Phillips (Garry) of Henry, Tennessee, Jeanne (Bret Cone) of Linwood, Michigan, Nora Morbeck (Rich) of Marietta, Georgia, and two stepchildren; Debra Farris of Dunedin, Florida and Brian Farris (Debra Kelley) of Portage, Michigan. He also leaves nine grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Rod was a teacher, coach and principal in schools throughout the state, retiring in 1988 as principal of St. Joseph High School. In retirement, Rod loved the Upper Peninsula, where he was an avid outdoorsman with beagles and bassets, later breeding some outstanding hounds.

Rod was a member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Paw Paw where a memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with The Rev. Gil DeAzevedo officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to Centrica Care Navigators-Rose Arbor Hospice or St. Mark's Episcopal Church.