Rodney Dirk Gentry

Rodney Dirk Gentry, Rod, died peacefully at his home on September 12, surrounded by his loving wife of 53 years, Pat, his beloved children, Marjory (Max) and Michael (Megan).  He is survived by his cherished grandchildren, Jackson and Hunter, and his siblings, Elaine, JoAnn, Mark and Matthew.

Rod was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and spent his formative years in Sacramento, California.  There he attended LaSierra High School where he played basketball, ran cross country and participated in Student Council.  He obtained a B.A. and M.Sc. in Mathematics from the University of Western Washington and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis.

Rod and Pat moved to Guelph, Ontario in 1972 when Rod joined the Mathematics Department at the University of Guelph.  He had an active academic career in Applied Mathematics that included writing a calculus textbook for biology students.  The primary focus of his research evolved into mathematical modeling of blood coagulation kinetics, which he did in collaboration with colleagues at Mount Sinai Medical School in New York.

After retiring in 2003, Rod and Pat moved to a small acreage on Vancouver Island where Rod took great pride in improving the grounds and structures.  When Rod’s health began to decline  in 2004, they moved into Qualicum Beach.  This allowed Rod more time to enjoy chasing a golf ball around the local course, exploring the many walking trails in the area, and learning bridge with friends.

Rod was very much a family man who said that “family was the most important thing in his life”.   He took great pride in his children and actively supported them in their life journeys.  His vacations with his grandsons were particular highlights, including teaching them how to eat Oreo cookies.

Rod was a gentle and kind man.  If you wish to remember him, please do so with a kind word or deed for someone in need.

The family wishes to thank the Oceanside VIHA Palliative team for their support over the past four months.