Rodney G. Page, 83

BEND, Ore. — Rodney Guy Page, 83, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025.

An active outdoors person, teacher, skier and dog lover, Rod lived with kindness, humor, and a deep devotion to his family and community. Rod lived fully and left gently, just as he would have hoped.

Rod was born in Brownville, Maine, to Bea and Guy Page. The family soon moved to the family farm in Stockholm, but his heart led him to education, not agriculture. After graduating from Ricker College with a teaching degree, Rod married his high school sweetheart, Leona Dickinson. Together, they started their family with two children, Joel and Joy.

Rod began a long teaching career at Tilton School in New Hampshire, where he and Leona welcomed two more sons, Jay and Jonathan. For 18 years, Rod taught advanced mathematics and computer science, coached cross-country and downhill ski teams, and served the broader community as deputy chief and head of the rescue squad for the Tilton-Northfield Fire Department. He was also a proud member of the National Ski Patrol at Highlands Mountain. Many memories were made there.

Later, Rod joined the faculty of The Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, Connecticut, after marrying Paulette Gladu. There, he continued teaching computer science and coaching sailing and cross-country skiing, while volunteering for the local ambulance squad and ski patrolling at Catamount Mountain. Rod and Paulette fully embraced school life.

In retirement, Rod and Paulette spent summers in Jay, Vermont, and winters in Bend, eventually settling permanently in Bend, to be closer to Paulette’s children, Christian and Nicole Gladu. Rod relished time with their grandchildren, Sydney and Chance, staying active on the slopes of Mount Bachelor well into his 70s, and never missed a chance to explore Bend’s ever-growing brewery scene.

Rod and Paulette were devoted to their dogs, Madison and later Beau. Rod was known in his Starwood neighborhood for never passing a dog without offering a pat — and a biscuit from his pocket.

After Paulette passed in 2020 following a courageous multi-year battle with ovarian cancer, Rod remained surrounded by community, comforted by close friends, neighbors, and his family. As the years went by, the man who once commanded classrooms and ski slopes became a big softy, always ready with a hearty hello, distinctive laugh, and a gentle smile. His life was one of impact, humility, adventure and kindness.

Rod is survived by his brother Jeff and wife Kristi; his children Joel and wife Susan, Joy and wife Joan, Jay and partner Tom, and Jonathan and wife Cori; grandchildren Emma, Milo, Pearl and Ansel; stepchildren Christian and Nicole Gladu (predeceased); and grandchildren Sydney and Chance. He also leaves behind many dear friends, former students and neighbors who will miss his distinctive laugh, generous heart and ever-ready dog treats.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rod’s memory to a local ski patrol, volunteer fire department or a charity of choice.

Rod’s ashes will be buried in the family plot in Stockholm, Maine. The family will hold small gatherings in the near future to celebrate his life.