Rod Warford

Rod Warford, a.k.a. "Hot Rod," a reliable pillar of his community and a beacon of generous love to his family, passed away on March 4, 2025. Born in Holton, KS, on July 10, 1961, Rod's life was a testament to his supportive nature and his unshakeable faith. His jovial spirit made him a beloved Santa at countless Christmas parties, his infectious humor lightening the hearts of many. His love for life was palpable in his diverse hobbies that ranged from collecting Hot Wheels to supporting the Nebraska Huskers, Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. Rod was a graduate of Wymore High School. Rod's dedication and commitment shone brightly in his 34 years of service to the City of Wymore, where he served as a police officer, and later in the water and street departments. His commitment to service extended into his volunteerism, where he was a member of the Wymore Volunteer Fire Department and an inspiring coach for youth baseball and basketball. He was a much-loved member of the Wymore Church of Christ, where he served as a deacon, a "Special OPs" Team Leader and the church custodian. His commitment to his faith is aptly captured in the biblical verse, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23), a sentiment echoed by all who knew him. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, camping, going on cruises, but most of all he loved any time he could get his family together for a time of love and laughter. He was a proud "Papa" to his grandsons and was devoted to going to all their sporting events. He married Dede Donovan on October 9, 1983, and to this union 3 girls were born: Dani, Nikki, and Megan. They later divorced. On May 18, 2002 he was united in marriage to Michele Umphenour and their two families became one. He is survived by his wife, Michele of Wymore; children, Dani Warford of Wymore, Nikki (Rick) Rowden of Beatrice, Megan Warford (Toby Rakes) of Wymore, and Jace (Kelly) Schmidt of Westminster, CO; grandsons, Cooper, Ricky, Axel, and Donovan; siblings, Terry (Tina) Warford, Jeannine (Jay) Murphy, and Tracy Warford; brother-in-law, Mark Umphenour; sister-in-law, LeAnn Umphenour; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Barb (Walters) Warford; infant sister, Connie Lynn; mother-in-law, Mary Umphenour; and brother-in-law, Kim Umphenour. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, March 10, 2025 at the Wymore Church of Christ with Clayton Lundstedt officiating. Burial will be at the Wymore Cemetery. The body will lie in state at the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore on Sunday from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM with the family greeting relatives and friends from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM and at the church one hour prior to the service Monday. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Wymore Church of Christ with the funeral home in charge. In honor of Rod's vibrant spirit and enduring legacy, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page at www.ghchapel.com, as well as view his funeral service and video tribute. Your contributions will serve as a comforting reminder of the funny, supportive, and generous man that was Rod Warford. These services have been entrusted to the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore.

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