Henry Alvin Roderick (Rod) Wiseman
03 Aug. 1958– 22 July 2007
A fighter to the very end, Rod finally succumbed to cancer at the young age of 48.
Born at Gaspe, Quebec, the family moved at an early age to Shawinigan, Quebec where he grew up. After graduating from Shawinigan High School, and a short career as a traveling salesman, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces serving as a Patricia (PPCLI) with the Canadian Airborne Regt, finally retraining as an Aero Engine Tech with the Canadian Air Force. During Rod’s career, from October 1978 until his retirement in October 1994, he not only served his country, but also served 2 tours with the United Nations in Cyprus.
Rod is survived by his wife, Wendy (Couzens), the love of his life and his 2 adoring children, Kerry and Justin. He also leaves behind his mother Lois, sisters, Wanda (Jerry) and Sandra (Rick) and brothers, Paul (Michelle) and Garry (Monica) and sister-in-law Anke and their children; Theodore, Jessica, Jason, David, Cora, Nicholas, Alexander, and Naomi. Wendy’s brothers and sisters, Richard (Diane), Dennis (Lorrie), Jackie (Stu), Wayne (Sandy), Deb (Cam), Sandy (Lloyd), Gary (Trina), Jamie (Rani), Tina , and Patti (Blaine) and their children; Don, Darryl, Frazier, Katie, Jennifer, Melissa, Sherry, Lisa, Kayla, Andrea, Rob, Jim, Monica, Mindy, Colby, Kailee, Carter, Kyle, and Amy. Rod’s best friend Camille (Swana) and their children, and Wendy’s cousin Todd (Nancy) and their children. He was predeceased by his father Alvin (1992) and mother-in-law Lorraine (1997) and father-in-law Jack (1995). There are many extended family members and friends on both sides.
Rod’s passion outside of his family was motorcycling. As the owners and operators of the Comox Valley Driving School, which they started prior to his retirement, Rod and Wendy have taught over 2,500 riders from one tip of Vancouver Island to the other. Nothing could bring a smile to his face and brighten his eyes as to be able to pass on his love of riding to new riders. His professionalism, sensitivity to new riders concerns, and easy manner allowed many to accomplish their goal of safe riding and also become friends. Although he will be sadly missed, he will always be remembered by all who knew him.
A celebration of life service led by Father Ives will be held on Thursday July 26, 2007 at 2:00 PM at Piercy’s Funeral Home, 440 England Ave, Courtney BC.
In lieu of flowers, Rod’s family asks that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Fair winds and soft landings, Jumper!