Rodney M. Birkins, Sr., 94, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024, at his cherished home on Mooselookmeguntic Lake in Rangeley Plantation, Maine.

Surrounded by his family, he left this worldwithloveand grace.

Rod was preceded in death by the love of his life, Janet Seward Birkins. They enjoyed 67 wonderful years of marriage, sharing a lifetime of adventures and active pursuits, including golf, traveling in their motorhome, skiing (both downhill and cross-country), hiking, scubadiving, and fishing.

Born to Ed and Alma Birkins on September 11, 1930, Rod was raised in Haworth, NJ. A natural leader, he captained the football teams atTenafly High School and The Perkiomen School. Hecontinued his athletic career at Colgate University, playing guard for the Red Raiders. After graduating in 1954, Rod served in the United States Air Force, earning the rank of Captain. One of his proudest moments was being selected as navigator for a flight with General Jimmy Doolittle, a pivotal figure in aviation history.

After his Air Force service, Rod began a 35-year career with the JCPenney Company, rising through the ranks to become President of the Catalog Division and a member of the JCPenney Management Committee during the company’s most successful years. He also served as Director of the Direct Marketing Association and President of the Catalog AssociationofAmerica.

In retirement, Rod split his time between Vero Beach, FL, Saint Petersburg, FL, and the Rangeley Lakes region inMaine. Hefound joy in the camaraderie and competition of golf, playing at Bent Pine Golf Club in Vero Beach, the friendly Mingo Springs Golf Course in Maine and as a social member of the Vinoy Golf Club inSt. Petersburg.

He is survived by his sister, Lynette Birkins; three sons, Rodney Jr. (Brenda), Arthur (John), and Bill (Martha); his daughter, Kim (Dan); three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Janet, and his brothers, Edwin, Parker,and Richard.

A celebration of Rod’s remarkable life will take place along the shores of Mooselookmeguntic Lake this summer. His was truly a life well-lived, full oflove, achievement,and adventure.

Memorial contributions can be madeto: Rangeley Health andWellness FitnessCenter 25 DallasHillRoad P.O. Box722 Rangeley,Maine 04970 Ph:207-864-4397 https://rrhwp.org