Rodney John Bargas

Rodney John Bargas, age 78, passed away Sunday September 22nd after a courageous 6+ year battle with Parkinson's Disease. He died at home with his beloved wife Susan by his side.

Rodney was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on November 27th, 1940 to Adeline and Gordon Bargas. He graduated from Istrouma High School in 1961, and was drafted into the Army where he obtained the rank of Sergeant (E5). Rodney served his country three years before being honorably discharged in 1964.

After his military service, Rodney began a long career at Thomas J. Moran printing company in Baton Rouge. He started as a binder on the printing press floor eventually rising in the ranks to regional manager overseeing offices in Dallas, St. Louis, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. It was at TJM that he met his wife Susan. After a long, dedicated career he retired in 2004 to Lake Bob Sandlin in East Texas.

An avid fisherman, Rodney spent as much time as possible trolling in his bass boat trying to land his next big catch. From the time he was a young boy he loved to catch fish. His dream of owning a home on the lake eventually became reality allowing him unlimited fishing opportunities, especially during retirement. He loved teaching his grandchildren to fish and cherished special times together on the water.

Rodney came to know and trust Christ in 1976. He served as a deacon at First Baptist Church in Pittsburg, Texas, and was an active member at Northside Baptist Church in Weatherford until his illness prevented his attendance.

Rodney will be remembered for his love of fishing, cooking, and the outdoors. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He provided generously for his family and was a teacher of many life lessons to his children and grandchildren. He loved his wife with all his heart and showed that love until the very end. He will be missed by his family, friends, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Susan Harwood Bargas; son Jeff Bargas and his wife Melanie of Dallas and daughter Jennifer and husband Mark Younger of Aledo; four grandchildren: Madison Bargas, Jonathan Bargas, Karson Younger and Kamron Younger; brothers Gordon Bargas, Jr. and his wife Mimi and family of Baton Rouge, Alvin Bargas and his wife Carlisa and family also of Baton Rouge, and sister-in-law Kathy Bargas of Yantis, Texas and her family.

He is preceded in death by his parents Adeline and Gordon Bargas, brother Cary Bargas, parents-in-law Walter and Dorothy Harwood, and brother-in-law Rick Harwood.