Antigonish, NS October 16, 2024
Christopher Michael Rodman floated away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, held by his family and friends, in Antigonish. At his side were his daughter Sidonie Hayes Rodman of New York and Maine, his son’s; Seamus Giffin Rodman -of their family homestead Beauly, and Jesse Joseph Henry of Maine. Chris joined his beloved life partner Barbara Anne Hayes (predeceased 2023) in eternal happiness.
Chris was born in Los Angeles, California in 1948, the seventh of 9 children, to Rhoda Alice Giffin and Francis Edward Rodman. Chris is survived by his sister’s Kathy Rodman, Joan Kennedy, Donna Boyle, Anne Thorward, and Eliana Haffiz. He is predeceased by his sister Cecelia Moelter, and brothers Paul Rodman and John Rodman.
Chris grew up playing basketball and surfing along the California coast. Always an adventurer, in his early 20’s, he set off to New York City and then into Canada first to British Columbia and then Ontario where his sister Kathy lived. Chris found his way to Montreal where he initially met Barbara, his future life partner. Chris worked on a farm in rural Quebec before moving to Nova Scotia as part of the back-to-the-land movement. He joined Barbara on a farm there in Beauly, Antigonish County, where they raised their three children.
Following in his father’s footsteps, who had been a very successful car salesman, Chris opened his own wood stove shop in Antigonish. His work brought the attention of Steve Smith who was operating a building supply store in Antigonish. Chris then joined Steve as head of his sales division, and later was instrumental in the continual growth of that business into The Central Home Improvement Warehouse Company alongside his friend and mentor Steve as the company’s purchasing manager.
Chris was incredibly devoted to his love Barbara and their shared passion for their land, gardens, travel, food and close network of friends. Chris raised his children to value hard work, nature, and kindness. He was immensely impactful to his and his families’ circle of friends, always encouraging them to accomplish all that they could, often pushing and supporting them in many of their life endeavors. Chris was always there, insisting they do and succeed in their lives.
Chris impacted many and his memory will be cherished not only by his loving family, but also the many in his circle of friends that knew him so well, and appreciated him so much.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to leave a donation to the Antigonish Woman’s Resource Center, https://awrcsasa.ca/donate/ , or the Antigonish Town & Country Library, "The People’s Place" where Chris enjoyed spending time. Link is here:
https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/11414 and remember to select fund no.2 "Friends of Antigonish Library (FOAL).
A cremation has taken place and the family is planning a private celebration at a later date.
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