Rodney Alan Pelander was born in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1952. The middle

of three sons, he graduated from Morgan Park High School in 1970.

In 1974 Rod graduated from the University of Minnesota, Duluth, with a

degree in Elementary Education. For the next four years he taught sixth

graders at a small, local school district.

Then he realized his real desire was to pursue an airline career. Ozark

Air Lines hired him as a Customer Service Agent in May 1978, which

eventually led to his move to St. Louis in 1984.

The TWA merger and subsequent change to American Airlines meant a

“roller coaster” of challenges, including a few years of work in Dallas, but

Rod always enjoyed the job. His retirement came at age 62 in 2014,

giving him more time to serve in his church.

Since his teens, Rod loved to travel. In his free time, he skiied and hiked

in different locales as he was able. He often visited with friends and

relatives around the world.

Rod passed away at home on December 26, 2019.

A Memorial Service will be held at Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church

(11645 Benham Road, St. Louis, MO 63136) on Thursday, February 13,

2020, at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon following.

Memorials preferred to “Helping Hands” Food Pantry c/o Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church.