Roderick Neil Dash

The family of Roderick Neil Dash is saddened to announce his passing. Rod was born in Atwater, California, September 17, 1965. He attended local schools and served as a Deputy Sheriff with Tuolumne County Sheriff's Department, Merced Police Department and Atwater Police Department. Rod retired as a law enforcement officer in 2019.

Rod is survived by his wife, Lisa Dash; his mother Linda Dash, his two children, Roderick Neil Dash, Jr., (Briana) and Lindsey Swadener, (Corey). His grandchildren Andrew Dash, Blake Dash, Charlotte Dash, Thomas Swadener and McKenzie Swadener. He is also survived by his step-children, Zack Fierro (Kristen) and daughters Ellie and Emi Fierro; Robert Berlier (Kirstynn) and daughter Reese; Brigette Gomez (Ricky) and their two daughters Brielle and Camille.

He was predeceased by his father Thomas V. Dash and his grandparents Bill and Hazel Neil and Edward and Helen Dash.

He had a love for all sports, especially racing BMX. He lived to race bicycles beginning at the age of 8 years until 2024. Anything that had handlebars and wheels he would be willing to race. Rod also was an avid supporter of his children and grandchildren's sports involvement. Whenever possible, he was there for them. Rod was also there as "Papaw" or "Rod Rod" to his grandchildren, always supporting them in their academic and athletic achievements.

Rod was a man of quiet strength. He didn't have to announce it. You saw it in the way he carried himself, in how he stood by his family, and in the way he faced adversity head on. His strength was steady and consistent. Rod led by example. He showed us that leadership isn't about words. It's about actions. He lived with integrity, worked hard and treated others with respect.

Rod was the first to lend a hand when someone needed help. Whether it was family, a friend, or even a neighbor, he showed up! If you knew Rod, you also knew his sense of humor. He loved to joke and poke fun at the people he cared about. Even in the hard times his laugh reminded us that joy was always possible.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roderick Neil Dash, please visit our floral store.