Naches, WA - Rodney William Gardenhire died unexpectedly on July 9th, 2025. Rodney was born to William and Sharon Gardenhire on April 14th, 1965 in Yakima. The love of Rodney's life was family, friends, fishing, animals and cars. He started working on cars (self taught mechanic) as long as we can remember. By the age of 18 he was already into auto body and paint. Throughout the years he had several shops in the Yakima and Cowiche area along with friends Ken Rose, Noel Ballew, and Ed Ross. He strived to be the best at whatever he did. A charger he painted took 1st place at the End of the World Rod Run car show. A 70 Boss Mustang took 1st place at Nationals. After closing up shop for health reasons he still gave his knowledge to others. He loved the outdoors and took a 65 mile journey through the Grand Canyon and a 165 mile rafting trip down the Colorado River with good friend Kannon Leach. Rodneys passion was fishing, and he enjoyed his last fishing trip with cousin Doug Woods He always said, Sis Life's an Adventure, and I'm ready for the next one. As kids growing up he was always pushing friends and cousins to overcome any fears they might have, often getting into trouble but taking the blame. He was definitely a protector of the people he loved. Rodney loved and shared his life with Kelly Akins for over 24 years. Together they were always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Their love for animals was immeasurably often taking in a pet that needed a home, or helping others lay their beloved pets to rest. Rodney was preceded in death by his father William Gardenhire and his companion of 24 years Kelly Akins. Rodney is survived by his mother Sharon Gardenhire and his sister Terassa Keefe (Armando). Rodney is in care of Valley Hills Funeral Home in which we would like to thank them for their kindness and compassion. We would also like to thank Josh and Bryson Neff and Noel Ballew for all their help in this difficult time. The family appreciates all your prayers and will plan a celebration of life for Rodney and Kelly at a later date.