Harry Roderick

Harry Herbert Roderick Jan. 20, 1909—July 17, 1988 79 years

Married Dec. 12, 1936 to Ruth DeNeal Parents of Larry Eugene and Shirley Ann Finney.

Harry was the youngest child of Joseph and Effie (Huffman) Roderick (F-3). He was the brother of Charles (F-5A), Kenneth (D-3B), and Florence (F-2B).

Florence relates a story in her book, I Remember, about Harry and Kenneth singing together in a program at Walnut Corner Church. Harry decided not to sing, and Kenneth would stop, poke Harry in the ribs with his elbow, and say, “Sing, Harry, sing!”, but he wouldn’t sing. She also told of his experiences as a climber. He’d get up in a tree or the windmill ladder and freeze. Florence would climb up and rescue him, and Harry would promise not to do it again—but he would!

Harry attended Grange Hall Grade School and Bismarck High School, where he played on the basketball team. He was a hired hand for Joe and Anna Shoemaker. He went to live on the farm the rest of his life. He married Ruth DeNeal on Dec. 12, 1937 (?) in Georgetown, IL.

Harry was a trustee and caretaker of the cemetery for many years and helped make many improvements. He was proud of the neat appearance of the cemetery.