Rodney “Rod” Wade Zirkle, 54, of Richland, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on January 1, 1971, in Virginia, Rod was the beloved son of Roger Lee and Linda (Hall) Zirkle. He graduated from high school in Virginia in 1989 and went on to earn his Associate’s Degree. Rod’s life journey brought him to Iowa in 1999, where he began a distinguished career in public service as a firefighter at the Veterans Hospital in Knoxville. He later joined the Ottumwa Fire Department as a firefighter and paramedic, proudly serving the community and standing strong with his brothers and sisters in the Firefighter’s Union.
It was during his time in Ottumwa that Rod met the love of his life, Sarah Ann Keeley. They were united in marriage on February 22, 2008, and together built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and devotion. Rod and Sarah were blessed with two wonderful children, Bekah (13) and Brody (10), who were the light of his life.
After retiring from his fire service, Rod continued to serve his community in another way—by becoming a school bus driver. He faithfully drove routes for the Fairfield, Winfield-Mt. Union, and Pekin school districts, always looking out for the children in his care with the same dedication he had shown his entire career.
Rod was a man of many passions. He loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, golfing, or practicing archery. He had a natural talent for working with his hands and took pride in tackling yard projects and handiwork around his home. His quick wit, warm hugs, and perfectly timed jokes made him unforgettable to all who knew him. Rod had a wicked sense of humor and a deep love of comedy that brought joy to many. Above all, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend.
Rod’s gentle spirit extended to all creatures—especially his cherished service dog, Maisie, a constant and beloved companion who was truly a member of the family.
One of Rod’s favorite traditions was volunteering at Old Threshers, where he could be found doing what he loved—driving the ground train and enjoying the music echoing from the grandstand.
Rod is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Sarah, and their children, Bekah and Brody; his brother, Kevin Zirkle and wife Anne; his in-laws, Jerry and Becky Keeley; sisters-in-law Tressa Keeley-Pickett and husband John; Cynthia Keeley Ridinger and husband Thom; his brother-in-law, John Keeley; his (Aunt)Sue Rapheld of Mt. Pleasant and his cousins Jill and Kenny Stutsman.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Dan Keeley.
Rod’s life will be honored with a memorial service at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 17th at the Conservation Center in Marr Park, 2943 Iowa Highway 92, Ainsworth, Iowa. The Ottumwa Fire Department Honor Guard will render final honors. Following the service, a Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held until 2:00 PM. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation for the future education of Rod and Sarah’s children, Bekah and Brody. Checks may be made payable to Sarah Zirkle.
Online condolences may be shared at www.kimzeyfh.com.