You do know it’s hard? To write about someone who is so full of life, who just… wasn’t going to leave yet. Everyone who knew Rodi Claire Erickson (Mess) thought she was a bright light. She died suddenly on April 18, 2024, at the young age of 28. Where her laughter used to fill the air, a huge hole remains, but her love and smile will always shine through our saddest days.
Rodi Erickson was born in Marshfield, WI, on a sunny afternoon on September 6, 1995. From that day on, she became an amazing wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and family member who never thought about herself. A real-life guardian angel. She found her true love in Brody Erickson, and the two of them made a love story that most people can only dream of. They promised to be together forever on a cool fall day in Appleton, WI. Their love was strong and true, built on fun and respect for each other.
The most important things in her life were her children, Arlo Michael, Haven Rodette, and little Kove Randal. Rogeri was more than just their mom; she was their whole world. Brody, her partner and best friend, was always there for her, through good times and bad. Their love was a lighthouse that helped them get through the rough parts of life.
Her faith kept her steady and gave her strength. Rodi was a proud member of North Ridge Church, and her spirit was a source of hope and kindness for everyone she met. Friends remember her pure happiness, which made them think of how happy she made their lives.
Rodi keeps giving even though she has died. Her choice to give her organs shows how generous she was, giving others hope and life. It was a final act of kindness that perfectly captured who she was.
We are sad and humbled at the same time. Humbled by every brief moment we spent together and by the love she gave me without conditions. Brody’s children, her parents Randy and Rodette, her sisters, and a huge group of family and friends miss her very much. But they are comforted by the knowledge that her memory will live on through them.
Rodi’s grandparents, cousins, and other loved ones who had gone before her were waiting for her at the gates of heaven to greet her.
The amount of help that has been given has been truly amazing. It’s too much to handle all the love and help coming in. It shows how Rodi affected all of us. It helps more than words can say with every prayer and gift. It shows that there is still good in the world, which Rodi loved very much.
We want to thank everyone who has reached out, as well as Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home, The Coffee Cabin, and many others for their unwavering support.
On April 29, her funeral will be held at North Ridge Church to honor her full and active life. It’s a chance to say goodbye, remember her, and treasure the love she shared with the world.
Rodi’s memory should serve as a lighthouse for all of us. Don’t forget to love fully and freely like she did. Rodi would want you to hug your loved ones a little tighter and let them know you care.
And during these hard times, when we have to deal with the world without her, let’s keep her spirit alive. Let’s live like Rodi did: with love, kindness, and happiness.
Donations can be sent to the GoFundMe page to help Brody and their children get through this terrible time. People in the community are coming together to hold this family in their hearts, not just give them money.
It was Rodi Erickson’s lesson for all of us that every second counts. To remember her memory, let’s live each moment to the fullest, treat others with kindness, and light up the world with our bright spirits, just like she did.
A Farewell Thought…
Does the sadness ever go away as time goes on? Maybe not today or tomorrow. Rodi Erickson’s impact on our lives goes on through the love she left behind. Is she ever really gone from us in this way? In how kind we are to others and how much we love our fellow travelers, Rodi Erickson will always be with us.
