July 7, 2021
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Roderick David 'Rod' Stephen, beloved husband father, and grandfather, surrounded by his wife, Sharon, his son, Jeff and his daughter, Cidnee on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at the age of 86 years.
Rod was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, where he began his broadcasting career at Radio Station CJGZ. He then worked at CKRD, Red Deer and CHED in Edmonton, before returning back to CKRD to become the General Manager. After a brief time as Branch Manager of Electrolux Red Deer, Rod applied and received the license to start CKGY in 1972. He became an original partner with CISN in Edmonton and went on to develop CIZZ (Z99) in Red Deer. Rod was a director on the Radio Bureau of Canada and Alberta Association of Broadcasters. He also sat on the Board of Directors with Shaw Cable, and was the President of Shaw Radio Ltd.; purchasing the radio stations that then became a part of Corus Entertainment.
After retiring in 1989, Rod and Sharon purchased the Harper property adjacent to the Red Deer Golf and Country Club and developed the Fountains Community, where they still reside to this day. Proud to be a part of the Red Deer Community, Rod was the first chairman of the Downtown Business Association and liaised with the Federal Government obtaining grants for the creation and building of the Red Deer and District Museum. He also served as a director with the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, Kinsmen Club and Economic Development Board. Rod's passion was his family, broadcasting and golfing at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club; as well as in many countries around the world. Rod and Sharon enjoyed spending their winters for over thirty-five years in La Quinta, where they welcomed many family, relatives and friends.
Rod will be lovingly remembered by his wife of sixty-two years, Sharon, his son, Jeff, his daughter, Cidnee and his grandson, David, of Calgary, his sister, Blanche Fowler of California and his sisters-in-law, Joan Stephen of Edmonton and Carol Nichols of Red Deer, along with his many nieces and nephews. The family is truly grateful for the caring and support of Dr. Anthony Williams, Dr. Shane Johnson, Nurses, Janel, Ruby and Shannon, EMT's Jason, Mitchel, Andre and Tyler, and also for the kindness and support from our Fountain friends.
A Public Reception to honor Rod's Life will be held at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club, 4500 Fountain Drive, Red Deer, Alberta on Saturday, July 24, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. If desired, Memorial Donations in Rod's honor may be made directly to a Charity of the Donor's choice. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com. Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 - 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.