Rodney Paletta

Rodney Tony Paletta, 50, of Topeka, passed away on Sunday, August 14, 2005 at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston, TX where he was receiving cancer treatment after a short illness. Rod's work life involved the sport he enjoyed, bowling. He managed Southwest Bowl in Topeka, owned Rod's Pro Shop and the Pit Stop Raceway. He later managed Southwest Shopping Center and owned Fuzion Nightclub. He was born on May 1, 1955 in Topeka, the son of Joseph T. and Almina Davis Paletta. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1973 and lived in Topeka all of his life. He married Gayle Fish on July 23, 1978 at Ward Meade Park in Topeka. She survives. Other survivors include a sister, Richell Baldwin and her husband Richard of Topeka, three brothers, Brad Paletta and his wife, Connie of Derby, Shane Paletta and his wife, Jill, Shawn Paletta and his fiance, Mary Meyer and his sister-in-law, Terry Paletta all of Topeka. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Brian Paletta. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday at Mount Hope Cemetery. Burial will follow. Rod will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. Thursday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Thursday evening. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a friend to lunch or give a contribution in memory of Rod to the organization of your choice.