Obituary: Rodney Scott Baldwin (1955-2025)

Rodney Scott Baldwin went home to be with his Savior on Nov. 14, 2025. He spent 70 full years on this earth — years that were richer and longer than any doctor ever predicted. Rodney faced life’s challenges with determination, humor, and a stubborn will to keep going, no matter what.

He married the love of his life, Debbie, on Jan. 22, 1976, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the kind of stories that are retold for generations. He was a proud father, grandfather, and a great-grandfather who loved spending time with everyone in his family. Family was always at the center of his world.

Rodney had a quiet faith — one that didn’t need many words. You could see it in how he lived, how he cared for his family, how he treated people, and how he faced hardship with grit and grace. He wasn’t perfect — none of us are — but he never let his mistakes define him. He just kept working, learning, and doing his best to take care of those around him.

He had a knack for fixing just about anything. Rodney was an engineer at heart, with a welder in one hand and an idea in the other. He could turn a pile of parts into something that worked, and if it didn’t, he’d stay at it until it did. There were many nights he’d work until dawn just to make sure he could get back on the road the next morning. He didn’t take many vacations, but he never missed his kids’ or grandkids’ games.

Rodney loved being outdoors, hunting, tinkering, and just “piddling” with his equipment. And if you ever sat down with him for a visit, you probably heard a story or two (or five) about his life. He had a remarkable memory for his younger days — stories of adventure, mischief, and hard work — and he loved sharing them with anyone willing to listen.

In the end, Rodney’s life was full — not because of things or trophies, but because of people. He was surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly, right up to his last days.

He leaves behind his wife of nearly 50 years, his three children and their spouses, seven grandchildren (and three of their spouses), and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, and many cousins and friends who will never forget him. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

Rodney’s life was a story of faith, family, hard work, and love. And like all good stories, it will be told and retold — each time reminding us of the man who could fix anything, drive anywhere, and love deeply.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Wren Community Hall, 35515 Kings Valley Highway, Philomath, OR 97370.