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BORN
1942
DIED
2019
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Rodney Wells Obituary
RODNEY ALLEN WELLS
November 11, 1942 October 22, 2019
Rodney Allen Wells died peacefully on October 22, 2019, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Centralia, Illinois, on November 11, 1942, and graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1964. He spent 25 years as an Air Force pilot, attaining the rank of Colonel before retiring in 1989 to put on the uniform of United Airlines for 14 years, retiring as a Captain.
He had a lifelong passion for education, attaining two masters degrees in English while on active duty and teaching English at USAFA, CTU and PPCC.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, community volunteer, and friend who loved to travel and spend time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by a family who loved him dearly including his wife of 53 years, Sabra Wells; son Brennan Wells and wife Leah of Colorado Springs; daughter Allison Catalano and husband Pete of Monument; grandchildren Greysen, Peter, Griffen, Sabra, and Chloe; stepmother Jean Wells of Tempe, AZ; brother Scott Wells of Houston, TX; and nephews Sean and Nick Wells and their families.
A memorial service will be held on November 4th at 1pm at the Air Force Academy Cemetery Memorial Pavilion.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children's Literacy Center (www.childrensliteracycenter.org) or the PPCC Foundation, attention: Rod Wells Scholarship (www.ppcc.edu/foundation).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rodney Wells
Bill Wallisch
November 8, 2019
Rod and I carpooled together on our way to teach English at the Academy. I'm reminded of the old movie title The Pleasure of His Company. Rod was a wonderful person, great officer, and a loving family man. I once handed him a mug of very hot coffee while he was driving. Never flinched! He did everything with great ease. Pat and I send the best to his lovely family at their time of reflection. Bill Wallisch, USAF ret.
Randy Reed
November 6, 2019
Rodney was a role model for me and an inspiration to many others. The world needs more people like him.
Harvey LeCato
November 2, 2019
My salute to a fraternity brother (Zoomie) and Sertoman !!!!!!!!!
Ellen (Eldo!❤) McMackin Spencer
November 2, 2019
Rodney was a friend of my sister Merry Gay.. When she became very ill with lung cancer, I called Rodney to ask if he could call her to cheer her up.. He was so considerate & called her often! His calls always cheered her! Rodney was a good guy, a hero in my mind! He was always so kind to Gay's little sisters! Sending my thoughts to Rodney's family..
Pat Sandy-Denham
November 2, 2019
Rodney and Scott were our neighbors growing up. So sad to read this it sounds like he had a blessed life. .
Condolence to his family and lots of fond memories of our childhood. He and my sister SANDRA Sandy were the same age. I will pass this news Onto her.
Peter Heinz
October 30, 2019
Rod Wells was once my Squadron Commander. A great man, a true gentleman. He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to his entire family!
Cherri and Mike Disque
October 26, 2019
Another Air Force man gone too soon. He will be remembered fondly.
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Funeral services provided by:
Swan-Law Funeral Directors501 North Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
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