Rodney Eklund, 69, died Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his family.
He was born September 30, 1956, in Coffeyville, Kansas, the son of Ervin and Enid Elaine Eklund. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1979 with a bachelor’s of science in business.
Rodney served in the U.S Navy in San Diego, California from 1980 to 1984 on the USS Tarawa. He worked for the Lawrence Public School District for over 10 years as a paraeducator and was a coach for numerous Lawrence Parks and Rec sports teams for 15 continuous years.
He married Melissa Eiler on May 10, 2001, in Lawrence, Kansas. He is survived by sons, Skylar Eklund and wife Samantha Eklund, Elijah Eklund, Alex Eklund, and Erik Eklund; grandson, Axel Eklund; nephews, Nathaniel Demby, Chris Demby, and Jordan Platt.
His father, Ervin Eklund, mother, Enid Eklund, and sister, Jane Platt, all preceded him in death.
Rodney was an avid sports fan who loved playing in his youth, collecting cards, going to games, and coaching all of his son’s teams. He had numerous pet dogs throughout his life, all of which he loved and cared for dearly. He loved to travel, encompassing a majority of the United States, Western Europe, and Canada. He will be remembered as a role model and loving father to his four boys.
No Services are planned at this time.
Rodney helped many children during his time as a para-educator. I had the opportunity to work with him for several years at Quail Run. He was always friendly and kind to everyone. You will be missed by many.
You were a great teacher Mr.rodney
You taught me so so much I’ll never forget you.
Rodney was a good friend. We spent many a hot summer evening together coaching our son’s baseball teams. Rodney was always patient and encouraging with the boys, willing to go the extra mile like purchasing minor league Sand Gnats hats for our team one year. I also shared some early morning encounters with Rodney as we both delivered the LJW for a time. His work ethic very much impressed me. I observed Rodney as a devoted father, and his son’s lives bear witness to that love. I will miss you, my friend.
So sorry to hear of Rodney’s passing. He was a joy to work with at our pharmacy on Saturday mornings.
Rodney helped me coach soccer for several years. I really appreciated the time he gave to help young people have a good place to be. It was a privilege to know his sons, they were outstanding young men. One can never lose a father. As long as you think of them they will be with you. Bless your family!