James Wayne “Jim” Rode

James Wayne “Jim” Rode left his earthly body on July 29, 2026, passing at home in the comfort and care of his loved ones after a battle with lung cancer. Jim was born on Aug. 25, 1964, in Benson, Minnesota, to Wilbur Dean and Susan Elaine Rode. 

He entered the world as an addition to their growing family, joining his big brother, Scott. In 1965, the family welcomed another son, Craig, followed by a daughter, Roxanne, in 1967. Their family was completed in 1969 with the arrival of his baby sister, Richelle. 

Jim spent his early childhood on farms throughout Minnesota and in the Lutheran Church alongside his beloved grandparents, which he cherished. In 1977, the family moved west to Kalispell, Montana, and then later settled in Libby. During his youth, he enjoyed playing baseball, fishing, hunting and being Montana rowdy. 

At times, he accompanied his father on the well-drilling rig throughout western Montana, developing a hard-working ethic that he carried throughout his life. Being born into difficult circumstances, his life’s path was complex and shaped by both hardship and resilience.

During his school years, Jim met Shelly Long. Together, they welcomed their first child, Crystal Amber Michelle—known to everyone as Cammi—on Jan. 11, 1982. They married on Feb. 11, 1984. On May 5, 1985, they welcomed their son, James Anthony “Jimmer” Rode. Years later, they brought their youngest son, Andrew James Rode, into this world on April 29, 1994. 

Jim worked many years in road construction and as a heavy equipment operator across the state of Washington, during which, he and Shelly divorced. During the course of those years spent in Washington, Jim welcomed his son, Theran James Rode on Feb. 3, 2002.

He faced many challenges, some taking him down winding switchbacks, some leading him astray and many guiding him back to the people and places he loved most. After the loss of his son, Jimmer, and a stint of living in Cincinnati, Ohio, he moved back to his home base of Libby, Montana. From there he formed a cherished friendship with Angela, with whom he shared many meaningful years. 

He enjoyed gardening and building things, putting his skilled carpentry to good use. Jim absolutely loved to fish and was a Minnesota Vikings fan through and through. He was rough on the edges but kind at heart, had an unmistakably deep voice that carried, telling it like it is, had a great sense of humor and a laugh to remember, always a loyal friend, and a “tough mf-er”. If you ever received a greeting card from Jim, you would know that he spent time to find the perfect one and was the best “card picker-outter.”

Life’s road turned sharply, leading Jim through another difficult challenge. Even in this hardest stretch, he was not alone. He found in Sheila a steadfast friend and love who walked beside him, offering guidance, comfort and strength. In May, Jim had all three of his children and their families here together, where he was able to meet and hold his youngest granddaughter, Tilly Anne Rode, for the first time. 

While the battle with cancer was ongoing, he won one battle he fought the majority of his life. On July 7, 2026, Jim earned his 1 YEAR SOBRIETY COIN, making those who loved him and knew him the best, so very proud. For those that met him with similar life struggles, Jim became an inspiration. 

As he approached his final departure, both his daughter Cammi and Sheila were by his side, offering the care, love, and encouragement Jim needed, leaving with them memories they share that will never be forgotten.

Jim is survived by his beautiful family: daughter Cammi Rode of Libby, Montana; granddaughters Breeanna Runyan of Troy, Montana, and Ember Rode of Eureka, Montana; son Andrew Rode (Bailey) of Belgrade, Montana, granddaughter Aleah of South Carolina; son Theran Rode (Caitlyn); and granddaughter Tilly of Tacoma, Washington. He is also survived by brother Scott Rode (Sheryl) of Renton, Washington; sister Roxanne Benefield (Dave) of Libby, Montana; and sister Richelle Rode (Tom) of Orofino, Idaho. 

In Heaven, Jim is reunited with his parents; his son Jimmer; his brother Craig; his niece Tala Arella; and many friends. As Jim reached the end of his earthly path, he did so with courage and hope. 

Those who love him take comfort in believing he arrived at the Gates of Heaven, welcomed by family and friends who have gone before him, ready to lead him home. “Carry on my wayward son, there’ll be peace when you are done, lay your weary head to rest, don’t you cry no more.”

There are no services at this time. Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg and Riddle Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories my be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.