Fredric "Rick" Neil Rodefer

Fredric “Rick” N. Rodefer, age 84, passed away on January 30, 2026. Rick was born on March 20, 1941, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Beauford Rodefer and Marion (Elbel) Rodefer.

On June 3, 1983, Rick married the love of his life, Penny Rodefer. Their marriage was one of deep love and devotion, and they shared many happy years together until Penny’s passing on November 18, 2023. Rick was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife.

Rick is survived by his loving children: Ricky Rodefer, Lisa Rodefer, and Rob Rodefer, all of Mishawaka, Indiana; daughter Danielle (Ben) Johnson of Houston, Texas; sons Nicholas Rodefer and Beau (Michelle) Rodefer of Mishawaka, Indiana. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to his grandchildren: Kailyn and Kehlani Hartman of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Zoe, Uri, Ellaree, and Ezra Johnson of Houston, Texas; and Isabella and Cambria of South Bend, Indiana.

He is also survived by his brothers, Terry E. Rodefer of Van Nuys, California, and Steve (Sue) Thompson of Niles.

Rick had a natural gift for humor and was a lifelong jokester who loved to laugh and bring smiles to those around him. He especially cherished his years at Townhouse East, where he spent some of the happiest moments of his life surrounded by close friends and neighbors. Rick loved sitting in the sun, chatting throughout the day, and being part of a community that meant so much to both him and Penny. The friendships they formed there—especially with the ladies on the square—were deeply treasured, and their kindness, visits, and care meant the world to him.

In his free time, Rick enjoyed playing softball and racquetball, cooking for family and friends, and cheering on his favorite teams—especially the Alabama Crimson Tide. College football season was always a highlight, and his love for Alabama sports was legendary.

A memorial visitation will be held on June 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 7:00 p.m., at Palmer Funeral Homes – Hickey Chapel in South Bend, Indiana. The date was chosen in loving remembrance of Rick and Penny’s wedding anniversary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Center for Hospice Care in Mishawaka, Indiana.

Rick will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his humor, warmth, and love for family and community will live on forever.

Roll Tide.

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