With a smile on his face, a twinkle in his eye, keys in hand, and the mighty Valley wind at his back, Rod began his final road rally on December 10, 2021.
Born in Fitchburg, MA to Sam and Rita (Vallee) Webster on July 31, 1934, he spent his formative years there and was a graduate of Leominster High School. He joined the Marines at age 17. He served in the Korean War and was wounded. He later served as an MP at 29 Palms, CA a where he first learned how to drive a car.
Rod always loved cars and had a passion for racing his bug-eye Sprite at Watkins Glen, NY, and Lime Rock, CT. He achieved his childhood dream of coming to Alaska in 1974 with his son Michael. In 1975 he began a relationship with Dawn and her two daughters Polly-Beth (Harris) Odom and Lacey Harris. The following year they were married and remained together for 46 years (minus two days).
Rod worked as a mechanic and service writer for several dealerships in Anchorage and Wasilla. He retired in 2000 and bought a motorhome. He and Dawn traveled throughout the “lower 48” for three years having the time of their lives. His 87 years of life were well lived, and he was well-loved by his family and friends.
Rod leaves behind his loving wife Dawn of Wasilla, his son Michael (ID), their two daughters Polly-Beth (Jeff) and Lacey of Wasilla, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. A gathering of family and friends will be held next summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Valley Hospice Resources.
