I was saddened to read of the passing of Rodney Bise. There is so much everyone knows about all the wonderful things he did for the community. But I would like to share what I was particularly grateful for in Rod, and that was the fact that he was such a great friend to my brother, Chuck (Butch) Perkins.

When Butch came home from the war in a wheelchair, Rodney (and Joy) was always there to lend a helping hand, be it odd jobs or repairs around the house, taking care of him in things that Penny just couldn’t do, driving him to Spokane in the worst of winter for whatever reason, taking him (and me) deer hunting, and just being a great friend!

There were others also who really cared and shared; Marvin Palanuk was another friend who would always go the extra mile for Butch.

I know Butch was grateful, even though he might not always show it. He could be angry and mean, and made some poor choices along the line. But who wouldn’t be a bit of a tyrant during 30-plus years in a wheelchair?

I am thankful the last time I saw Rod I got to talk to him about all that and to thank him. Rest in peace, Rod; I’m sure Butch is so happy to see you! He can beat the brush for you now!

Jim Truax

Lacey, WA