Rodney Gene Yaryan's Obituary
Rodney Gene Yaryan (Rod) was born in Vallejo California on March 2nd, 1947, to Mildred Belle and Charles Leon Yaryan. As a child in a military family, they moved around quite a bit before landing in Eureka Springs, AR. Rod shared fond memories often of Eureka Springs, AR. Rod graduated early from high school to get a job and buy his first car. He was smart and had a good work ethic. He went on to serve in the Navy as a Jet Engine Mechanic where he travelled across the Mediterranean on the USS Saratoga Aircraft Carrier. As a Jet Engine Mechanic, he got to do many things that few people get to, like fly in an F-4 Phantom Jet. Rod scored very high on academic and intelligence tests. So high that he caught the attention of his superiors and was presented with an opportunity to attend West Point. He declined the offer, something he regretted over the years.
Rod was honorably discharged from the Navy and went on to work at a dress manufacturing company that he eventually owned in Addison, Tx. He never lost his love of airplanes. He attended and took his daughter to many Air Shows. His first business was near Addison airport. One of his favorite things to do was sit and watch the planes land and take off. Rod loved dogs and owned many dogs in his lifetime. He loved going to the dog park with his two bulldogs, who were a huge hit. He loved watching the Dallas Cowboys and never missed a game.
Later in life, Rod developed a passion for riding motorcycles. That became his favorite thing to do. At one point, he owned 6 motorcycles (2 Indians and 4 Harleys). He rode as long as he could, then moved to a trike, and ultimately had to stop riding as his health declined. A lifelong free spirit, he found his greatest happiness on the open road, riding his motorcycles and slingshot. His joy for life, adventurous heart, and easy smile left a lasting impression on everyone he knew. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, generosity, strong convictions, and the warmth of his heart. Though steadfast in his ways, he was a loving and kind man to those he held dear.
Rod is survived by his daughter, Kelly Gene Yaryan and granddaughter, Katarina Belle Yaryan (Kat), son-in-law Jason Burt, brother Mike Yaryan and sister-in-law Pat Yaryan and niece Jaime Yaryan and nephew Jeff Yaryan, and his buddy Junior, a French Mastiff.
A visitation and memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 7th, with the visitation starting at 9:30am and service starting at 10:30am. The service will be at Wildwood Chapel at Restland Dallas 13005 Greenville Ave, Dallas Tx 75243.
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