Roderick M. Read

Roderick James Macdonald Read, March 17, 1929 - November 19, 2024

Sacramento, California - Roderick James Macdonald Read passed away November 19, 2024 in the comfort of his home.
He was born on St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) in 1929 to Frederick William and Mary Irene Read at Mercy Hospital in Sacramento, CA. He attended David Lubin Elementary, Sutter Middle School, Sacramento High School and Christian Brothers High School. He was one of the youngest to become an Eagle Scout and played fullback at Christian Brothers. He graduated from the University of Santa Clara in 1951 where he was captain of the boxing team, a member of the ROTC and Senior Class President. Shortly after graduation, he married his best friend, Nancy Janet Spore. Immediately he was sent to Fort Sill and Fort Lewis for artillery training and served as first lieutenant in the Korean War and earned the Bronze Star with Valor.

He leaves behind (4 of) his sons Mark (Patty), Paul (Rebecca), Erik (Stacey) and Benedict, grandchildren Jason (Karla), Richard (Adam), Megan (Joey), Steven (Jenny), Roderick (Laura), David (Christine), Mary (Trevor), Riley (Yale), and Sean and 13 great-grandchildren. He will be rejoining his wife, Nancy and 2 sons, Richard and Roderick.

Rod established his own General Contracting business, Rod Read & Sons, in 1953 building custom homes, apartment buildings, church and commercial structures in Northern California. He was a Cub Scout Master, member of the Mercy Foundation, Sutter Club and Pioneer Club, Knight of Malta and President of the Grandfathers Club. He always gave you his undivided attention and made you his comfortable companion. 
He will be missed by all who met him. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 9th at 11 a.m. at St. Ignatius Church with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers please consider making donations to Jesuit High School or Mercy Foundation.