Pictured above, far right, Rod Keller the City Of Guelph General Manager of Operations at the opening of Guelph Skate Park just a few weeks ago.

As the picture above shows well, that was Rod Keller – the always smiling, always there when you need him, always wanting to help and always making you laugh Rod!

Our staff and council send our deepest sympathies to his family that are grieving the sudden passing of Rod just yesterday morning.

On a personal level, Rod would always stop me in the hallways of city hall where we’d have a chat leaning against the wall on idea’s to make things better, or a way to explain to me what his staff were already doing to make things better.   

His communication skills to council were second to none. Explaining details to us a budget time, emailing us late at night during winter storms to keep us up to date on the snow plowing of roads and sidewalks – he would never miss a beat.

I would discribe him as one of the most loyal people I knew, yet he was able to balance his loyalty while bringing about suggestions to try new things and challenge the status quo which we all admired.

Rod and I connected early on when I arrived at city hall. We both arrived around the same time. When I found out that his background included time serving our country in the military, we often discussed his time in that role and his missions. His family often came up too. He talked about his three kids and wife Laura to me along with his dedication to his faith and church.

So very sad. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time.

Cam 

Statement from CAO Derrick Thompson:

“It is with shock and deep regret that the City of Guelph acknowledges the unexpected passing of Rodney (Rod) Keller, General Manager of Operations, devoted leader, and friend.

Rod passed away suddenly Saturday.

On behalf of the employees of the City of Guelph, I extend my most sincere condolences to Laura, Rod’s wife, to his three children, Gabriel, Hannah and Paige, and to his entire family.

Rod joined the City of Guelph in 2011 after a distinguished career in the Canadian Armed Forces. There, Rod served his country in Europe, including Cyprus, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Afghanistan where he commanded an Engineer Squadron on Operation APOLLO. Rod held a Bachelor of Engineering Degree (Civil) and a Masters Degree in Defence Studies. Rod retired from the Armed Forces as a Lieutenant-Colonel.

Rod’s military career served him well at the City of Guelph where he oversaw an operation of more than 170 men and women. In his role with the City, Rod led with integrity, warmth, and an unfailing work ethic. He was dedicated to the men and women who worked for him and with him, and he was well-liked and respected by his colleagues up, down, and across the organization.

 Rod’s service to our community and our country will be sadly missed, but not forgotten.

 The City flag will be lowered to half-mast in honour of Rod, as per City protocol.”