Rod…Rod Dawg…Rodney…Runutdu… Rodney David Taitano sadly took his last breath at the very young age of 57. He had kidney disease and an aggressive form of dementia, which ultimately cut his life short.

Rod was the coolest… he’s the youngest of 5 kids that were raised by an amazing single mom that moved mountains for them.

Rod was full of life, a go-getter from an early age. He loved music and going to concerts, sat front row and smashed in mosh pits, and was a true foodie. He was a carpenter journeyman side-by-side with his uncles and cousins, a crane operator, Harley Davidson mechanic, and a construction salesman.

He has 3 kids and 2 granddaughters that he loves unconditionally. I’m sure baby Christian, who was born sleeping, welcomed Rod with open arms!!

Rod was raised by his mom but amongst her 15 siblings. The siblings were close, which meant us first cousins were closer. Our weekends weren’t filled with sports games or practice but with family gatherings, whether planned or not… from someone’s house, to Arco Park where it was just our family, to traveling Novenas, and anywhere in between. We are a tight family with us cousins having an unbreakable bond regardless of time spent apart.

As we navigate this painful time, we are raising funds to cover the funeral and memorial expenses so we can honor Rod in the way that he lovingly deserves. Our goal is $10,000, which will help with:

* Funeral service and cremation costs

* Memorial arrangements

* Transportation and related costs.

Any contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign would mean the world to us. Thank you for helping us give Rod a farewell surrounded by love!