Rodney Preisser Obituary

Rodney James Preisser passed away unexpectedly on January 5th, 2013 at the age of 66. He is now at rest in the arms of his Lord Jesus Christ. Rodney had been a long time resident of Colorado Springs since 1972. He was born on November 29th, 1946 in Garden City, Kansas and was the son of the late Adrienne Schanel Preisser and James Gaylord Preisser. He graduated from Lamar High School in 1964 and from Colorado State University in 1969 with a degree in Agricultural Economics. Rodney had many varied interests. He had a brilliant mind and used a very unorthodox method to solving problems. He was a gifted conversationalist and never knew a stranger. He always approached people with his hand extended, saying "Rodney Preisser, Colorado Springs". Subsequently, he had lifelong friends from all over the world. Rodney treated all people equally and always made those around him feel at ease and welcomed. Rodney had many loves. He grew up in farming and ranching and maintained this lifestyle throughout his life, as a livelihood, as a hobby and upon his death he enjoyed living on a ranch again. Rodney loved flying; he earned his pilot's license at the age of 16 and roamed the skies having many adventures in many different airplanes. He influenced his friends and children to also learn to love flying. Rodney began his love affair with water development at a young age, building a 21 mile pipeline to Security-Widefield. Rodney became an expert in the area of water rights and water development, and he completed his last water deal in October of 2011. Rodney loved mentoring the "up and comers" as he fondly called them. His greatest loves, however, were his wife, his children, grandchildren and many close friends. He and his wife Kerri spent a lot of time traveling the world and visiting friends. In an article in 2006, Rodney stated, "I just want to pass as many life lessons as possible along to my kids about positive attitude and perseverance", and this he did so well. Rodney was the absolute best father; he successfully guided six children to become responsible, caring and successful adults. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Kerri Preisser; son Lt. Col Jason Preisser (daughter-in-law Lt. Col. Melanie Preisser) of Arlington, Va.; daughter Cory Anderson (son-in-law Kevin Anderson) of Aurora, Co.; daughter Amy Baird (son-in-law Bret Baird) of Parker, Co.; daughter Brittany Rothe (son-in-law Nathan Rothe) of Golden, Co.; daughter Alexandra Lane of NYC; daughter Taylor Lane of Boulder, Co. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Reece Preisser, Ethan Preisser, Megan Anderson, Lauren Anderson, Kate Anderson, Emmeline Baird, Maxwell Baird, Grey Rothe and Kitt Rothe. Rodney is also survived by his brothers, Kenneth Preisser and Gary Preisser; his sisters, Cheryl Preisser, Gayla Preisser, Denise Preisser and Tami Preisser. He was preceded in death, by his sister Karen Preisser. Rodney is also survived by countless friends across the world. Rodney's legacy is one filled with love, compassion, generosity and his capacity for knowledge, which he constantly shared with so many. Our loss is great and he will be missed always. Our comfort is in knowing that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. A celebration of life will be held at Calvary Worship Center, 501 Castle Road, Colorado Springs, 80904, on Friday, January 11th, 2013 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Limb Preservation Foundation, 1601 East 19th Ave. Suite 3900, Denver, CO 80218, P (303) 429-0688.

Published by The Gazette from Jan. 9 to Jan. 10, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Rodney Preisser

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So sorry to hear this news. I grew up practically next door to Rodney and Cheryl. I have many good memories of those days when we were all young.

Tom Likes

February 2, 2013

Our deepest sympathy, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Tim Emick Family

January 17, 2013

We will miss you, dear friend, but rejoice in knowing that one day we'll laugh together again!

Lyndel & Kathy Stripling

January 16, 2013

Rodney, you were my life; my soul mate; my best friend. I am so thankful for the life we shared and the many opportunities you gave all of us. Your generosity was beyond measure. As I am grieving, I am so grateful for your final words to me: "Kerri, it is so beautiful, it is so beautiful; everything is going to be fine tomorrow." The Lord spoke to me through you and I know without a doubt that you are in the presence of God and our Savior Jesus. I am unafraid of leaving this world now, and I will see you again in the life eternal. I will love you with all of my heart and soul for eternity. Kerri

Kerri Preisser

January 16, 2013

Thinking about and missing you so much. I don't know how I am ever going to get use to this. I love you so 'mush'

Amy Baird

January 15, 2013

Rodney was one of my favorite "Lamar Boys". I knew him and Cheryl, as well as many of their cousins, all through high school. My sincere sympathies to your family.

Lin Fife

January 12, 2013

I would like to thank both Rodney, Kerri, and their family for extending their friendship to my family and myself in my younger years. You all were always so kind to the Taliaferro's and we always appreciated your friendship. I am terribly sorry for your loss, Kerri, Alex, Taylor, and the rest of the family. Take comfort in the fact that Rodney now resides with God and we will all see him again in time.

Tesla Peltzer

January 12, 2013

Sorry for your unexpected loss.

Jim & Neta Day

January 12, 2013

My thougths and prayers are with you and your family. Rodney has been a good friend since the 70's and will be missed by me and many others.Phyllis Campbell

January 11, 2013

Kerri, I am so sorry to hear about Rodney. He was a great leader and inspiration for me - he will be missed but never forgotten...

Steve Schafer, Boise ID

January 11, 2013

Today we say our final goodbye as your final flight with angels you soar,

Please bless us with the dip of your wing as you enter heavens door.

January 11, 2013

Rodney's downtown office was adjacent to mine for some years-he was fun, engaging, unpretentious, and loved a good story. He'll be missed - so long, old settler!

John Hazlehurst

January 11, 2013

Kerri and family,
So sorry to hear of your great loss. We are thinking of you and praying for you.

Suzanne Travis and family

January 10, 2013

Kerri,
Rodney was the ring bearer in my wedding in 1953, and Cheryl was the flower girl. I have many precious memories of Rodney.Catherine Brady- Adrienne's Cousin

Catherine Brady

January 10, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Preisser family .
God Bless

Dave West

January 10, 2013

Kerri, I am so sorry to hear about Rodney, he was a wonderful guy. If you need anything just call. You were there for me, I will be glad to return the kindness.

Kay Grasmick

January 10, 2013

Kerri -
Rodney was always a great friend and business asoociate for us. His indominitable spirit, unparalleled humor, spry mind and peristence will always be fondly remembered. Please accept my best thoughts and prayers for Rodney and you and your family during a difficult time. Walt Coughlin

January 10, 2013

My deepest sympathies to you Kerri and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time dear friend.

~ Lisa Lefebvre-Perez

January 10, 2013

Kerri and Family,
I am so sad for your loss. My prayers are with you all. Kett Winsor

Kett Winsor

January 10, 2013

To Rodney's family: Our deepest condolences on his passing and for your loss. Rodney was a tremendous person, and his life and legacy will not soon be forgotten. I'm only 36 years old, but I've known Rodney for over 30 years now -- since I was a small boy. He maintained close a close relationship with my grandfather (Louis Johnson) and my father (Greg Johnson) and valued their friendship and counsel. Some of my earliest childhood memories were of attending parties at Rodney's home, and playing in the yard with Jason, Cory, and Amy! As I grew to be an adult, I looked forward to the latest stories from my grandfather about Rodney, and was also able to share a dinner with my wife, parents, cousin, Rodney and Kerri at my parent's home in Colorado Springs a few years back. Sadly, one of my grandfather's and Rodney's latest adventures was intended to be discovering the skies in a new Cessna ultralight plane they had ordered several years ago; however, unfortunately they were not able to take that last flight… Even so, Rodney exemplified the notion that “one can only fail who gives up,” which resonated with many of the lives that he touched. It's only a small consolation, but I'm confident that Rodney's presence in the lives of me and my family was a blessing, and we are all better for it. Peace and love, Sam Johnson, Mongthuong Tran, Tai Johnson, and Luc Johnson.

Samuel Johnson

January 10, 2013

Kerri and family, What a sad day when I heard of Rodney's passing. He was a joy to be in school with at Lamar High. He was full of life then as well.
Prayers and best wishes. Bob Trosper '64

January 10, 2013

Our hearts go out to the family.. prayers are with you all

Patty Heise

January 10, 2013

We never had the pleasure of meeting Rodney, but as friends of his loving sister Denise, we heard many good things about his accomplishments and his love of life. On behalf of myself and Parker we send our deepest sympathy to the Preisser family.

Diane Schinella

January 9, 2013

Kerri, I am so sorry to hear the news of Rodney's passing. I can't even begin to know how it feels to lose such a love but know that I am here for you...always! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love You!

Debbie Meeks

January 9, 2013

I was both shocked and sadden by the passing of Rodney. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. My God sustain you though this very dificult time.

Ron Webb

January 9, 2013

My deepest sympathies to Kerri, Alex, Taylor and the Preisser family on your loss. Rodney was an exceptional person who will always be remembered for his smile, his kindness, his warmth and noble character. My thoughts and prayers are with you during the very difficult time.

Ingrid Richter

January 9, 2013

To a wonderful cousin. You will be missed and remembered.

Judy Preiss-Monett

January 9, 2013

Rodney was a great man who always made you feel that you were his only buddy. It was a privilege to say you knew him. People like Rodney are not made every day and the world will in fact stumble and mutter a bit without him.

Bob Schout

January 9, 2013

Kerri:

I was so sorry to hear about Rodney's passing. He was a great guy. I really enjoyed him in high school. You and yours are in my prayers.

Jan Statler Cameron

January 9, 2013

Kerri, I just heard the news. My heart hurts for you my friend, so wish I could be there for you. My deepest sympathies to you. Rodney was truly an exceptional man. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Melissa Cusano

January 9, 2013

Rodney was truly "one of the best" of the class of 64! He always made anyone he met feel special. My condolences to Kerri and family.

Leslie Walker Davis

January 9, 2013

A wonderful person and someone who will be missed greatly. Prayers to all of you as you heal.

Judy Rydberg-Reyher

January 9, 2013

A terribly sad day for our family and the Lamar High Class of 64. We're all going to miss Rodney, big time. God bless you Kerri, you're in our prayers. Love you Dan and Pat

Dan and Pat Gittings

January 9, 2013

Rest well dear friend. They don't make them like you anymore. Kerri, please know our prayers are with the Preisser family.

Shawn Thompson

January 9, 2013

My family did so much growing up with the Preisser family. So many great memories, laughter and just great fun. Thank you for being there Rodney. You will be missed. Much love to Jason, Cory, Amy and all the family.

Kathy LaCerte

January 9, 2013

The world will miss your infectious laugh, your contagious smile, your love of life and your tenaciousness. All that knew you were given a special blessing.

Kimberly Wills

January 9, 2013

I am very sorry to hear the news of Rodney's passing. I am sending my deepest condolences to the family.
I can imagine Karen being there to help Rodney cross over and showing him the way to Gods loving light.
The entire family is in my prayers.

Sherry Adams- Becker

January 9, 2013

our sincerest sympathy to the families...
kelley, sheila, tell & wil wollert

January 9, 2013

I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all!

Amy Florendo

January 9, 2013

Rodney was a very kind and giving person. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Denise & Walt Aufderheide

January 9, 2013

I wanted to express my sympathy to Kerri, Taylor, Alex, and all the Preissers. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I know that Rodney was respected and made a lasting impression on everyone that he met. What a blessing to have him be a part of your lives.

Vicki Biegler & family

Vicki Biegler

January 9, 2013

We know that no words can help ease the pain and loss that you are feeling right now. You are in our every prayer and thought.Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss.

Dave & Tracy Doran

January 9, 2013

Sleep well old friend.

Jim and Cheryl Harding

January 9, 2013

Rodney was one of my favorite cousins! He always had a smile on his face and always made me laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this difficult time. I pray that he is now in the arms of the ones he loved and lost. Deb Schanel Jackson

January 9, 2013

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