Rodger (Rod) Earl Wetzel

April 18, 2026

Rodger (Rod) Earl Wetzel, age 82, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 11, 2026, in Pensacola, FL.

Rod was born on May 12, 1943, in Stockton, California, the son of the late Virgil and Lois Wetzel and the oldest of their 4 children.

Rod split time during his teenage years between the California Central Valley and Klamath Falls, Oregon. At the young age of 17 and by way of Parental Consent, he enlisted for service in the United States Navy. Rod served for six years between 1961 and 1966 with most of that time aboard the USS Lexington. He accepted his discharge in Pensacola, Florida, having served his commitment honorably.

Shortly after that, Rod would meet and fall for the love of his life, Sheryl Josey. Rod knew at first sight that this was who he wanted to start a life with and wasted no time. After courting for 2 weeks, Rod proposed to Sheryl and they were married within the year. They would remain married for 58 years until his passing. A true love story.

Rod worked as a tradesman until his retirement in 2000 due to a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease. Rod would battle this disease with grace and humility until his passing.

Rod Wetzel was first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ attending Smyrna Baptist Church. He was equally dedicated to being an incredible husband, father and Grandfather.

Rod is survived by his wife, Sheryl, his daughter Paula Keating and her husband Tom, his eldest son Levi Wetzel, and his youngest son, Ty Wetzel, his sister Rixey Quadros and brother Ronald Wetzel, and his three grandchildren Jacob, Lauren and William.

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Rod. Until we meet again in Heaven.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries