Rodney was a remarkable man, a man of many dimensions, who loved hunting, fishing, being with family, and just being home. He lived life with a passion and was dedicated the Rapid City Fire Department.  He worked endless hours and was greatly respected by his peers and the community.  He pursued a degree in business that supported his values and integrity through Dakota Wesleyan University. He retired as the Rapid City Fire Chief in 2020 after 25 years of service.

Rodney was born the youngest of three children June 19, 1970, to Donnie and Kathy Seals. He grew up in Chowchilla, California on an almond farm enjoying fresh-air, sunshine, and lots of animals.  He attended Chowchilla High School where he developed his love for welding. He was involved in FFA and received national awards for his welding and farm equipment projects. Rodney was involved in sports, including baseball and wrestling.

Rodney worked many jobs in his younger years which developed his strong work ethic.  He worked as a hunting guide and swift water guide in Wyoming. He continued working in his father's petroleum business in Wyoming as well. He owned his own welding business for years prior to and during his career at the Rapid City Fire Department.

Rod met his wife, Jennifer, at the wedding of her sister, Katie and Seth. Rod and Jenny were married on New Year's Eve, 1998. Their wedding was one of the only weddings where the newest additions to the family were part of the ceremony;  babies were carried by the groomsmen, his brothers.  Family and relationships were so important.

Some of Rod's favorite past-times were camping with his family, hunting with his father and brothers, and playing on the beach with family in California.  He loved watching the deer and turkeys in his own yard.  But one of his greatest joys was watching his children in sports and musical activities; Rod was extremely proud of their accomplishments. He was always good at encouraging their creativity and interests.

Rodney will be remembered for his ability to develop lifelong friendships. He was admired for his integrity and his natural, humble leadership. He will remain in the hearts of all that knew and loved him.  He would not have wanted to be the center of attention; he just wanted to do his job well. He was a man of faith.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and his children, Elyse and Carter,

his father Donnie (Kris), his mother Kathy (Norm), and his siblings Ronnie (Sandra), Randy (Kelli), Cody (Jennifer), Heather (Jay), and sister-in-law Cindy; Rod's in-laws Ivan & Char, Katie (Seth) Laura (Hal), Chipper (Shelly), and Marty (Chelly), and many beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Rodney Seals is preceded in death by his grandparents and father-in-law, Jim.

Memorials may be directed to the family for the construction of a memorial park bench which will be placed on the Rapid City walking path or M Hill or a charity of your choice.

Services will be at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at Calvary Lutheran Church. Rod's service will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/calvaryrapidcity/ .

Immediately following the service there will be a gathering at the VFW Post 1273 (420 Main St.) where all are welcome to continue celebrating Rod's life.