Rodney Maley

DECEMBER 13, 1960 - NOVEMBER 14, 2024

Rodney Lynn Maley, 63, passed away at his home in Topeka, Kansas on Thursday, November
14th, 2024.

Rodney was born in Norton, Kansas on December 13, 1960 to Harold and Oneitta Maley. He
was the ninth of twelve children. Growing up, Rod was an outstanding athlete. He graduated
from Hill City High School in 1980. In June 1980, he purchased a Reese’s peanut butter cup
from a small cafe in Morland, Kansas. It was there that he invited Karen Minium on their first
date. On May 16th, 1981, they were married in Hill City Kansas, and to this union three children
were born: Audrey, Darrel, and Paige. In 1987, Rod was involved in a car accident where he
suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. He never let this slow him down. He went on
to coach girls’ softball, wrestling, youth football, and tee-ball. He was an avid K-State fan, and
enjoyed watching collegiate sports. Additionally, Rod found joy in being outdoors, vacationing to
Branson with Karen, and spending time with his family and friends. In 2006, he was promoted to
the title of “Poppy” when their first grandchild was born. Spoiling his five grandchildren became
his new favorite hobby.

Rodney is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Karen, of the home; his three children: Audrey
Seeger, her husband Jason, and their three children (Elizabeth, Matthew, and Joshua) of
Moundridge, Kansas; Darrel Maley and his two sons (Gage and Jackson) of Newton, Kansas;
and Paige Vander Linden and her husband Nathan of Topeka, Kansas; his two precious dogs,
Penelope and Fiona; four sisters (Lyneitta, Rita, Illa, and Shirley); and six brothers (Dennis,
Craig, Randy, Rick, Terry, and Larry). He was preceded in death by his parents., Harold &
Oneitta, and a sister, Ruth.

Rodney was very specific that he did not want everyone crying over him. In that spirit, his family
has decided to celebrate his life on April 6th, 2025, in one of his favorite spots - the Ted Ensley
Gardens at Lake Shawnee during Tulip Time. Details will be provided at a later date.. A bench
will be placed at Ted Ensley Gardens in memory of Rodney. Contributions to the bench can be
made by mail to: Topeka Community Foundation, Shawnee County Parks & Recreation
Facilities & Program Fund, 5431 SW 29th St., Suite 300, Topeka, KS 66614. Please note “Rod
Maley memorial fund” on your check or with a note enclosed. To give online, please visit
https://topekacommunityfoundation.org/donate , select “Shawnee County Parks and Recreation
Facilities and Program Fund” from the drop down menu and place “Rod Maley memorial” in the
notes.

While there will be no funeral services at this time, Rod’s family asks that family and friends take
a moment to honor Rod’s generous spirit and love for the holiday season by donating to their
local food bank or community holiday dinner.