Rodney Feldmann

On Wednesday, May 1, 2024, Rodney Feldmann, scientist, mentor, husband, and father, died peacefully at home at the age of 84.

Rod was born on November 19, 1939, in Steele, ND, and was raised in Bismark, ND, by Lois De’Ette and Herman “Red” DuPree.  He received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Geology from the University of North Dakota under the mentorship of F.D. “Bud” Holland, Jr.

He went on to teach courses, manage a robust research program, and mentor students in the Department of Geology (Earth Sciences) at Kent State University since he was hired as a Temporary Instructor in 1965.  Rod was president of the Paleontological Society and co-editor of the Journal of Paleontology, and he published over 450 scientific papers between 1962 and 2024 on fossils, primarily on decapod crustaceans (lobsters, crabs, and shrimps).  He is a global expert on fossil lobsters and crabs, and his work has placed him in the top 2% of scientists in the world.

Rod loved traveling, reading crime novels, driving his classic 1937 gangster-style Packard 6, conducting geological field work, and working with students on research and teaching.  He was an outstanding mentor and role model for students and colleagues and his research continues to influence scientists worldwide.  His philosophy, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,” never wavered; he spent his last days occupied by his life’s work: writing sections of an upcoming multivolume book describing fossil invertebrates.

He is survived by his wife Carrie Schweitzer of Kent, OH; his daughter Aissa Feldmann of Durham, NC; his brothers, Frank George (Helen) DuPree of Billings, MT and Don Keck (Mary Grace) DuPree of Atlanta, GA.

In honoring Rod’s and his family’s wishes, there will be no formal service held.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Rod’s name, to the Department of Earth Sciences, Kent State University or to the Portage Park District Foundation, Streetsboro, OH.

Arrangements in the care of Bissler and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.