Paul Roder
Paul Roder, who retired from Campus Safety, died Sunday, September 29, 2019. He was 73.
Paul joined Skidmore in 1992 as a patrol officer for Skidmore’s Security Department (now Campus Safety). He retired in 2008 but continued to serve as an on-call Campus Safety officer until 2010. Colleagues recalled his detailed understanding of Campus Safety procedures, warm personality and eagerness to help others.
“He had a great sense of humor, always had a smile on his face, and was just a jolly guy,” said Campus Safety Sgt. Michael J. Sullivan. “He was always reaching out to help someone, whether it was a colleague or a student.”
Born in Brooklyn on April 4, 1946, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in the Vietnam War. He later joined the New York City Police Department and received its highest law enforcement award, the Medal of Honor. He also worked for the Corinth Police Department.
Paul earned a bachelor’s degree from Long Island University and a master’s degree from SUNY Plattsburgh.
Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Peggy; his brother, John; his children, Maureen, Michael (Andrea), Helen, Brian, and Joseph; two grandsons, Peyton and Michael; and many nieces and nephews. He was interred with full military honors at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.