Mike Hull
Tribute to Rodell Riemersma
Several decades ago, our fellow aviator friend Jim Schaeffer in a happenstance meeting at Field’s restaurant, struck up a conversation, and befriended Rodell. They were both the outgoing friendly types, so it was not a surprise that conversation led to Jim’s request for her to store his box fan, used to keep us cool in the UW dorm rooms, at her employer’s law firm’s office until he returned for next year’s Oshkosh airshow. Rodell agreed, and for a couple years, she stored the fan and Jim would pick it up at the beginning of the airshow and drop it off at the end of the week. Then, Jim inquired about whether she would be interested in hosting him and a couple of friends at her house on South Park. Rodell said, sure why not.
I was fortunate enough to join Jim and Rich Leamon in that arrangement which began sometime in late 1980’s or early 1990’s. Well, that ritual continued annually without exception until 2020 when the airshow was cancelled due to COVID.
During all those years we all looked so forward not only to the Airshow, but also spending time with Rodell, who became a cherished friend. We soon felt like “honorary family” getting to know sweet Jenny, Jenny’s friend Scott, Chris, and his delightful daughter Olivia, who was the apple of Rodell’s eye. It was enjoyable to listen to Rodell’s stories about her family and friends and all that she did with them.
During airshow week, breakfast was the first event of the day - evident downstairs as Rodell would be busy in the kitchen setting up cheeses, bagels, fresh fruit and with the kitchen TV on keeping us informed of any “Packers” developments, the weather, or other news of the day.
After a long day at the airfield, we closed the day by gathering in the living room, sharing stories and bottomless bowls of “M & M’s”. Rodell genuinely enjoyed participating in the lively banter and the “buzz” about town that AirVenture brought.
It may be that our ritual with Rodell has come to an end, but the fond memories she created opening her home to us, lovingly sharing her and her family’s life story, will never be forgotten.
Rodell, may you rest in every lasting peace.
Written with love and respect,
Mike Hull