Rodney “Rod” Johnson, 64, of South Bend was unexpectedly called home on Thursday, January 18, 2024. He was born in Brainerd, Minnesota to Merlin and Charlotte (Goochey) Johnson on September 22, 1959. He met his sweetheart at college and married Kathryn “Kathy” Parson of Weeping Water, Nebraska on December 30, 1983.

Together they raised two daughters, Ruth (Rob) Rosentreter of Houston, Alaska and Rachelle (Seth) Bell of Jackson, Kentucky. Rod left behind his parents and three brothers, Gene (Angela) Johnson, Donald (Shelley) Johnson, and Jeff (Holly) Johnson. He is survived by six in-laws: Dorothy Murphy, Dale Parson, Alan Parson, Camilla Bridgman, David Parson, and Jeffrey Parson. He is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, family, and friends who were near and dear to his heart.

Rod and Kathy served nearly 25 years as missionaries with World Gospel Mission. They taught and spread their love of Jesus to communities in Bolivia, Mexico, Texas, and Illinois, before settling in South Bend for the last 10 years. Before his passing, he served as the Facilities Director at Center for the Homeless in South Bend.

Rod enjoyed helping family and friends with whatever project they had going on and was known to be a “jack of all trades”.  His family will miss his mischievous smile, sense of humor, and vast wisdom that drew others close to him. His family have said, “When Rod spoke, you were quiet and listened closely because he might not say it again and it was usually profound.”

A time to visit with the family is scheduled for Wednesday, January 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka, Indiana.  There will also be a viewing at Redeemer Missionary Church in South Bend, Indiana on Thursday, January 25 at 10 a.m. Following this viewing, there will be a service at 11 a.m. with Pastors Jason Nicholls and Matt Kitsos officiating.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Rod’s life, memorial contributions may be sent to Hope Ministries with World Gospel Mission, Mexico or the Center for the Homeless.  

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Rod’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit the Tribute Tab on Rod’s obituary at the funeral home website. www.wellsandcruz.com

To watch the livestream of Rod's service please click the link below.

Wells And Cruz