Rodney T. Mitchell, age 66, of 681 Bagdad Road, Waterford, died Saturday, November 3, 2012 at UPMC Hamot. He was born in Erie on March 23, 1946, and was married to Nancy L. Boyd on February 8, 1969.

Rod worked in the hardwood and lumber manufacturing business all of his life. Since 1987, he partnered with his son, Brian, to own and operate Mitchell Hardwoods in Waterford. He was very much an outdoorsman, enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and playing golf. Many would agree, though, that his number one priority was his family– being a devoted husband, a great dad, and a terrific grandpa. He certainly loved his grandchildren and was very involved in their activities.

In addition to his wife, Nancy, Rod is survived by a son, Brian R. Mitchell of Waterford and his friend Lisa Leube; a daughter, Rhonda R. Napier and her husband Chris of Cary, NC; four grandchildren, Briana and Shelby Mitchell, and Ryan and Tyler Napier; a nephew, Steve Mitchell Jr. and his family of Erie; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and Keith Troyer of Union City and their families.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Tuesday from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be there Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Patrick Lenox. Interment will follow at Waterford Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Stancliff Hose Company in Waterford, or DaVita Dialysis of Erie.