Rodney 'Rod' Deibler

Rodney Paul Deibler (age 70) of Ankeny and formerly Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away September 12, 2024, after a short battle with cancer. Rod was born on August 22, 1954 in Belmond, Iowa to Marilyn Lint and Gerald “Buzz” Deibler.

When he was two years old the family moved to Cedar Rapids where he grew up, went to school, and also spent summers at his Grandparents’ (Howard and Vera Dasch) farm in Renwick. Rod had a horse named Tony and was proud to be a part of the Saddle Club with his Grandad.

Playing a musical instrument was very much encouraged, but Rod wanted to play a guitar rather than the usual school band instrument. His wish for a guitar came true and Rod taught himself to play. He continued his love for music by playing bass guitar in various bands throughout his life – with the most recent being 15 years with the Jason Brown band.

Rod enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17 and served from 1972-1976, mostly aboard submarines. He credited those years and technical training with helping him secure a successful life-long career as a telecommunications engineer. In 1985 he married Diana, and they had a son, Derek Deibler. While Rod and Diana’s marriage later ended, they remained close friends.

Besides being a great musician, Rod was known for his work ethic, ability to simplify the most complex situations, and dry sense of humor. He worked for a series of telecommunications companies such as McLeod USA and AT&T, and especially enjoyed working 10 years for IMEG Corp. (formerly KJWW Engineering Consultants) in Urbandale, IA where he retired and then came out of retirement to work for them again.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents; Gerald Deibler and Marilyn Lint; sister Krista Day of North Branch, MN and brother; John Crock of St. Paul Park, MN.

Survivors include his son Derek Deibler of West Des Moines, IA, siblings; Joni Mostad (Todd) of Shoreview, MN, Londa Fabio (Dave Hepburn) of Coon Rapids, MN, Matthew Crock of Naples, FL, Lori Warner of Cedar Rapids, IA, Linda Peterson of Mt. Pleasant, IA, and Carma Ernster of Cedar Rapids, IA. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A brief military service will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Dr., Adel, IA on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 12:30 pm with Hamilton’s Funeral & After Life Services handling arrangements.

To honor Rod’s memory, please consider supporting local musicians and live music venues by buying tickets to an upcoming show.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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