Rod Suess' Obituary
Roderick James Suess, 46, son of Charlotte and Jerry Suess, passed in his sleep February 14, 2018. He died of pneumonia as a result of his heroic battle against esophageal cancer. Rod was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but moved with his family to Germantown, Tennessee when he was a toddler. A gifted athlete, Rod began playing sports in elementary school and continued throughout High School. He lettered in football and baseball at Germantown High School, graduating in 1990. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1994. As his longtime friends know, Rod was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity serving as Social Chairman, playing in Spring Classic Fund-raising football games, and Carnicus. Rod returned to Memphis after college, beginning a job in the securities business with Vining IBG. While the securities business provided ample income, it was not Rod’s passion. Rod transitioned into the hospitality industry, first tending bar at some popular local restaurants leading into his Assistant Manager career at The Blue Monkey, Midtown. Rod was good at most everything he did, cherishing his coworkers, friends, family, and patrons alike. The loyalty to the things and people he loved never wavered and he will be missed. Rod is survived by his parents, beloved niece, Autumn Fitzsimmons, and sister Ginny Fitzsimmons. Services will be held on February 20, 2018 at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Visitation begins at 12:30 p.m. with Rod’s memorial service to follow at 2:00 p.m. There will be a gathering from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Germantown Country Club in celebration of Rod’s life. Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN 38119 (901) 767-8930. “Celebrating Life… Behind the Stone Wall”.
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