BERNE — Rodney William Geel, a man who was passionate about his family, died peacefully at his Berne home on Monday, June 7, 2021. He was 67.

He was born on March 24, 1954 in Clarksville to Robert Geel and Shirley Martin. He attended Bethlehem School District and graduated in 1972.

“Rodney had an undeniable charm, great sense of humor, and was a captivating storyteller who brought smiles and laughter to everyone around him,” his family wrote in a tribute. “Rodney had many passions, but none greater than his family, including his dogs.

“With an adventurous spirit, he enjoyed traveling the country and spent his career as a truck driver. He also enjoyed being outdoors and NASCAR and took several memorable trips with his family and friends.”

He is survived by his mother, Shirley Martin; by his loving partner, Alice Zabel, by his children, Jason Geel (Laura); Jenny Terrell (Craig); Jordon Geel (Megan); by his stepdaughter, Danielle Smith (Jason); and by his grandchildren, Ava, Ruby, Blake, Aidan, Alex, Austin, Eli, Annie, Emmett and Andrew.

He is also survived by his siblings, Sharon Leonard; Charlotte Locastro (James); Robert Geel (Tracy); Linda Swain (Richard); Sandra Schrowang (Mark) and many nieces and nephews.

His father, Robert Geel, died before him.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Friday, June 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. at New Comer Funeral Home at 343 New Karner Road in Colonie. A service will be held on Saturday, June 12, at 11 a.m. at Onesquethaw Reformed Church at 11 Groesbeck Road in Feura Bush)with interment to follow at Onesquethaw Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Onesquethaw Reformed Church, 11 Groesbeck Road, Feura Bush, NY 12067-9755.