Obituary of Rodney Erling Eliason

Please click here to view the livestream of the service 

Please click here to view the online photo book

Rodney Erling Eliason, late of Regina, SK, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, September 11, 2020 at the age of 82 years.  He was predeceased by parents Oscar and Genevieve Eliason; in-laws Bill and Kay Friesen; and brothers-in-law Royden Taylor and Don Friesen.  Rod will be sadly missed by his wife Marlene; daughters Janell (Marlin) Fontaine and Colleen (Brandon) Wilkinson; grandchildren Raina, Nathan, Shea and Kaleia; sisters Arlys (Ted) Peters, Mardell (Dave) Wolfrom, and Donnie (Wayne) Aasen; brothers-in-law David (Eleanor) Friesen and Wayne (Barb) Friesen; sister-in-law Debbie Friesen; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. 

Rod was born in Kuroki, SK on July 16, 1938 to Oscar and Genevieve Eliason.  He completed both high school and bible school at Briercrest College and Seminary and went on to obtain a degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan in 1967.  Rod enjoyed a rich and rewarding career with SaskTel and retired in 1999. 

One of Rod’s greatest accomplishments was fulfilling his dream of developing a beautiful acreage along with his wife, Marlene.  He engineered and built their home and developed a large park-like yard with his own hands.  He created an ideal space for raising his family for 19 years.  Rod’s devotion to his family was demonstrated through his steadfast love, patience, and wisdom.  He was our rock.  He was also very close with his sisters and particularly enjoyed family trips and gatherings.

Rod was a productive worker throughout his life.  In addition to the manual work of building and fixing anything in need of repair, Rod enjoyed working with his mind.  He was a voracious reader, and he spent many hours researching and documenting family history.  He enjoyed games and puzzles involving math, words, and logic. 

Rod was not only practical, efficient, and organized.  He was a gentleman, kind and considerate and often inquiring about the well-being of others.  He was a keen thinker and thoughtful observer who always chose his words carefully.   His love of life was reflected in his vibrant blue eyes.

Rod’s Christian faith informed the way he lived his life.  He was a devoted member of First Baptist Church for over 30 years.  He greatly enjoyed the ministry and community fellowship, and he adored sacred music.  Rod’s commitment to Christian faith and values brought him peace, grace, and joy.

A Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Church, 2241 Victoria Avenue, Regina, SK on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be no reception. To view the livestream of the service please click on the link at the top of Rod’s tribute page at www.speersfuneralchapel.com.  Interment will take place at a later date at Briercrest Cemetery, Caronport, SK. 

Family and friends so wishing may make donations, in memoriam, to the Eliason Bursary at Briercrest College and Seminary, 510 College Drive, Caronport, SK, S0H 0S0 or First Baptist Church, 2241 Victoria Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 0S4.