Rod Barclay MCcausland Obituary (2024)

Rod Barclay McCausland was born in Hood River, Oregon, on January 1, 1954. In 1969, he was a teen when he came into the lives of John and Suzy McCausland. They were captivated by his wit, compassion for those in his past whom others might not view kindly, and his strong internal compass. As a teen, Rod was a voracious reader who loved science fiction and music interests that continued throughout his life. Rod was adopted in 1970 and joined toddlers J.C. and Marti in the family. Later, a brother, Aaron, and sisters, Sara and Megan joined them. Rod graduated from Sunset High School in Beaverton, Oregon, and after a four-year stint in the US Army, he developed his computer skills to become a programmer and software engineer. Rod was a caring and indulgent older brother. When his younger siblings visited, the trips always included the latest board or video games along with their favorite foods and snacks. After receiving a computer science degree from Washington State University in 2004, Rod moved to the Yakima Valley and lived in Moxee for the last 12 years. A reserved and unassuming guy, he was always happy when he could make even minor positive impacts on others. Trick-or-Treaters soon learned his treats were full-sized Hershey bars, and he gave out hundreds each year. Rod's colon cancer was discovered in late June 2024--just two months before he died on August 30, 2024. As he weakened, he continued to battle his illness because he was a determined and optimistic fighter who knew he had beaten slim odds throughout his life. His loving family members were often by his side as he tried to regain strength to take road trips in his Tesla again. Those trips never happened, but abundant memories of an upbeat and gracious son, brother, and uncle will remain with his family throughout their lives. Rod was preceded in death by his brother, John Cloward McCausland Jr. (J.C.). He is survived by his parents, John and Suzy McCausland; his siblings, Marti McCausland, Aaron McCausland, Sara McCausland, and Megan Mallicoat; his sister-in-law, Jenell Crosier and brother-in-law, Joe Mallicoat; and nieces and nephews Tyler, Mackenzie, Maggie, and Jace McCausland, and Hunter Mallicoat. Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com