I’ll never forget how I met Rod Menzel through the Best of Success conference in 2007. That year, Ted Jorve from Jorve Roofing in Seattle gave a powerful presentation about the book Blue Ocean Strategy and how it transformed his business. Ted didn’t just talk about ideas — he showed how implementing them sparked real, meaningful change. Rod was in the audience, and like many of us, he was deeply inspired. But unlike most, Rod took it a step further.

Moved by what he heard, Rod called Ted and asked if he could fly up to Seattle from Camarillo, Calif. Ted said yes, and Rod spent an entire week with him, absorbing everything — his systems, strategies, mindset, and culture. He was a sponge. When Rod returned home, he took massive action. He rebranded his company as Greatway Roofing, made bold changes, and set a course that would completely transform his business. It wasn’t just about growth; it was about vision, leadership, and purpose.

(from left) Michelle and Rod Menzel with RC Publisher Jill Bloom and Greg Bloom of QXO.
Photo courtesy of Jill Bloom.

In 2008, Rod called me. He introduced himself and said he wanted to speak at Best of Success. At the time, our event was still new, and I never had a contractor call me volunteering to speak. I was skeptical, but Rod wasn’t looking to sell anything. He simply wanted to give back. He wanted to share how Best of Success had changed his life and business in the hopes that his story might do the same for someone else.

Rod took the stage in 2009 and lit up the room. His story of transformation was authentic, heartfelt, and powerful. Roofing Contractor featured Rod on our cover in September 2010, expanding the reach of his message. He returned to the Best of Success stage in 2011, offering practical takeaways and honest insights once again. That stage was where our friendship began, but it was far from where it ended.

In 2016, we shared a memorable dinner at Mon Ami Gabi in Las Vegas with his whole family. Rod, Michelle, Austin, and Brandon were always a joy to be around. They were a regular presence at the Western Roofing Expo, smiling, connecting, and sharing time with friends. That’s just who Rod was.

He lived with intention. He gave with his whole heart. And he never stopped pushing himself. Rod was in the best shape of his life, preparing to run his sixth marathon in London with the entire family, then go mountain biking in Portugal. He brought the same dedication to training that he brought to his business and relationships. But God had a different plan.

Even after his tragic accident, Rod gave the ultimate gift: he was an organ donor. My husband, Greg, and I were present for what’s called the “Honor Walk” or “Hero Walk.” As Rod was wheeled from the ICU to the OR, about 70 people lined the hospital hallway. The song “Don’t Worry About a Thing” played softly as Michelle, Austin, and Brandon walked with him. Rod’s pastor read scripture from the Apostle Paul: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” He followed with a prayer. There wasn’t a dry eye in the hall. As they wheeled him away, many of us softly called out, “Love you, Rod.”

Rod lived generously. Loved deeply. Gave without hesitation. And his smile—his contagious, authentic smile—could light up any room. Thank you, Rod, for being the kind of person who lifted others, believed in the good, and never stopped giving. You left the world far too soon, but the ripple of your impact will continue. We love you, Rod.