I have just learned of Rod's passing and am shocked to learn that this very fine man is gone. We used to take turns keeping the bag of chocolates in his office or mine. Of course, each chocolate was an excuse for another fun conversation. He was a wonderful person and colleague, I am so sorry for your loss.

- Jacquie Fraser, Northampton, MA

A very big part of all of us. That's forever.

- Richard & Doris Sokol & Family, Travelers, All

Rod welcomed my roommate and me from undergrad at the University of South Dakota to Kansas with open arms. He made our time at KU so much more fun and interesting than it might have been otherwise, and was a wonderful advisor. He had a way of lighting up a room and everyone he met was a friend. I've missed him an thought about him a lot over the years. He was one of the good guys. I'm very sad for your loss. I'm sure he was an amazing father. If any of Rod's sons are ever in Rock Chalk country, it would be my honor to sit down with you and make a toast to your dad. He really was a great guy.

- Lael Nelson, Olathe, KS

My condolences to the McAdams family during this time of bereavement. The Bible teaches that " There will be a resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous."-Acts 24:15.

- Jeff, Lawrenceville, GA

Rod was one of the finest persons I have ever known. He was an absolute pleasure to work with, always patient and never stuffy. Indeed, we worked together for nearly 15 years. His command of trivia was wonderful. When I arrived at the office every day, I assailed him with the name of some obscure historical figure or film star who had died the day before. He would do the same to me. "We lost one," the words that would signal the day's "Stump the chump" challenge, we would say to one another. Seldom was I able to outfox him. He had a wonderfully encyclopedic command of facts, one that few could match. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

- David Adams , Midway, GA

From a hallway and university full of PhDs, what can one say about a man smarter, funnier, and far more interesting than all of us, but never given to ego or bravado? Dr. McAdams — Dr. S. — was an on-stage father (with talent deserving of EGOT status) and an off-stage mentor and friend. He turned drab days in the office into hours-long conversations about 19th- and 20th-century law and politics and, with truer-than-tall-tales of road-tripping, hitchhiking, and working on the Reservation, an eight-hour drive to and from a eugenics conference into a ride that you never wanted the ride to end. He spent time in rabbit holes (calculating, for fun, state-by-state hospital Medicaid reimbursements) and time at the center of department pranks, whether as instigator or target. He took teaching and trivia nights on Tybee seriously, but never himself. When asked how he’d like his name tag phrased for a pending re-accreditation site visit, while others fretted over formalities or how much to flash our credentials, he joked, “Dr. Skippy” — and his standing, as always, stood for itself. One could easily get lost in the jungles of his office (we’re still not sure what laws of physics enabled the move from Solms to UH), and when he whispered (always apt) comments during meetings, looks askance from deans and department heads often seemed to land on you, whether your snicker was silent. He loved being a grandfather and a negotiator of reduced motel rates on the drive for visits north. He graciously shared his time with students and with each of us … and even his coupons for canned tomatoes. We are heartbroken here, and Dr. McAdams is and will be remembered.

- Leigh E. Rich, Savannah, GA

I was a high school and college classmate of Rod's. He may well have learned the underpinnings of his love for medicine and health care when he worked at Hamilton Drug in Salina. Rod and I and our other friends has a bunch of fun growing up together. I am not surprised that Rod ended up in education. Tom Mulvenon

- Tom Mulvenon, Lenexa, KS Kansas

Rod and I were roommates in the Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity house for a week or so when we both started our freshman year at KSTC (Emporia State). He moved out of the fraternity house after about a week (didn't have the grades to pledge). I first met Rod probably 4-6 months earlier as Tom Mulvenon and Rod were great highschool friends and Tom and I were friends. I've always wondered how Rod came out. It sounds like he had a very successful life of teaching and helping people. He was a great family man. My condolences to Linda and family. Mike Petitjean Emporia, KS (I graduated from Broookville High School in 1966)

- Michael L Petitjean, Emporia, KS

Dr. McAdams was always a joy to be around. There was not a day that he didn't bring smiles to the faces of the entire class. I enjoyed the times when we had conversations about sports and politics. He was an excellent professor, and I always looked forward to attending each of his classes. His knowledge of practically everything and amazing life encounters are characteristics I cherish the most about having the chance to get to know him. He is truly missed.

- Dustin Binkley, Savannah, GA

Skippy was a true treasure. I will remember him always.

- Sandy Streater, Savannah,, GA

I just got the news about Rod. So sorry to receive it and I would extend my love and sympathy to all his loved ones. Spent some quality time with him at our 50th reunion.

- Harvey Hoover, Colorado Springs, CO

Dr. McAdams was my professor at Armstrong from 2001-2006. I spent a lot of time in his classes for both Grad and Undergrad. One thing we always knew that his classes were going to be entertaining, a life lesson was going to be given, and you had to know about Kansas City Jayhawks as it may be a bonus on an exam. My condolences go out to the family. Wishing you peace and comfort and courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to always cherish.

- Sabrina Brown, SAVANNAH, GA

Prayers of good memories and peace to all of Rod's family.

- Helen Weber, Marquette, KS

I am so sad to hear of Rod's passing. He was a great colleague, a better teacher and the best friend. He was always cheerful and full of fun. We always new it was really winter when he wore long pants to work. Please accept my condolences for your loss and offer prayers during this difficult time. - Catherine Gilbert, Savannah, Ga

- , ,

Rod was a joy to work with and it was my honor to know him as a friend and colleague. We had many enjoyable walks around the campus each day, discussing both fun and complex challenges of life and work – in fact several times we decided to repeat our walks as we needed more time to complete discussing our ideas -– or we would finish our walk and each of us would run to our computers and google something to see who could first figure out the answer (it was always him!) As a friend, he was completely trustworthy and I was always amazed at what he knew about raising kids, cooking and cars! May you all find comfort in your memories as each family member meant so much to him – often our talks involved stories of each son and of course, Linda as he gave you credit for raising such amazing boys. Peace to you all, Janet

- Janet Buelow, Richmond Hill, GA

Sorry to hear of your great loss. Rod was one of a kind and the world will be different without him. Love Sandy and Michael

- Michael Dufault, Savannah, GA

Dr. McAdams was my professor at Georgia Southern University. He was dedicated to the success of his students and his joy of teaching was evident. His presence in this world will be missed. I am truly sorry for your loss and pray for peace and comfort for your family.

- Christina George, Bluffton , SC

I am sincerely sorry for your loss. I will remember Rod for his humor, intelligence, and relentless commitment to his teaching. Praying for comfort for your family.

- Paula Tillman, Richmond Hill, GA

I have just learned of Rod's passing and am shocked to learn that this very fine man is gone. We used to take turns keeping the bag of chocolates in his office or mine. Of course, each chocolate was an excuse for another fun conversation. He was a wonderful person and colleague, I am so sorry for your loss.

- Jacquie Fraser, Northampton, MA

A very big part of all of us. That's forever.

- Richard & Doris Sokol & Family, Travelers, All

Rod welcomed my roommate and me from undergrad at the University of South Dakota to Kansas with open arms. He made our time at KU so much more fun and interesting than it might have been otherwise, and was a wonderful advisor. He had a way of lighting up a room and everyone he met was a friend. I've missed him an thought about him a lot over the years. He was one of the good guys. I'm very sad for your loss. I'm sure he was an amazing father. If any of Rod's sons are ever in Rock Chalk country, it would be my honor to sit down with you and make a toast to your dad. He really was a great guy.

- Lael Nelson, Olathe, KS

My condolences to the McAdams family during this time of bereavement. The Bible teaches that " There will be a resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous."-Acts 24:15.

- Jeff, Lawrenceville, GA

Rod was one of the finest persons I have ever known. He was an absolute pleasure to work with, always patient and never stuffy. Indeed, we worked together for nearly 15 years. His command of trivia was wonderful. When I arrived at the office every day, I assailed him with the name of some obscure historical figure or film star who had died the day before. He would do the same to me. "We lost one," the words that would signal the day's "Stump the chump" challenge, we would say to one another. Seldom was I able to outfox him. He had a wonderfully encyclopedic command of facts, one that few could match. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

- David Adams , Midway, GA

From a hallway and university full of PhDs, what can one say about a man smarter, funnier, and far more interesting than all of us, but never given to ego or bravado? Dr. McAdams — Dr. S. — was an on-stage father (with talent deserving of EGOT status) and an off-stage mentor and friend. He turned drab days in the office into hours-long conversations about 19th- and 20th-century law and politics and, with truer-than-tall-tales of road-tripping, hitchhiking, and working on the Reservation, an eight-hour drive to and from a eugenics conference into a ride that you never wanted the ride to end. He spent time in rabbit holes (calculating, for fun, state-by-state hospital Medicaid reimbursements) and time at the center of department pranks, whether as instigator or target. He took teaching and trivia nights on Tybee seriously, but never himself. When asked how he’d like his name tag phrased for a pending re-accreditation site visit, while others fretted over formalities or how much to flash our credentials, he joked, “Dr. Skippy” — and his standing, as always, stood for itself. One could easily get lost in the jungles of his office (we’re still not sure what laws of physics enabled the move from Solms to UH), and when he whispered (always apt) comments during meetings, looks askance from deans and department heads often seemed to land on you, whether your snicker was silent. He loved being a grandfather and a negotiator of reduced motel rates on the drive for visits north. He graciously shared his time with students and with each of us … and even his coupons for canned tomatoes. We are heartbroken here, and Dr. McAdams is and will be remembered.

- Leigh E. Rich, Savannah, GA

I was a high school and college classmate of Rod's. He may well have learned the underpinnings of his love for medicine and health care when he worked at Hamilton Drug in Salina. Rod and I and our other friends has a bunch of fun growing up together. I am not surprised that Rod ended up in education. Tom Mulvenon

- Tom Mulvenon, Lenexa, KS Kansas

Rod and I were roommates in the Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity house for a week or so when we both started our freshman year at KSTC (Emporia State). He moved out of the fraternity house after about a week (didn't have the grades to pledge). I first met Rod probably 4-6 months earlier as Tom Mulvenon and Rod were great highschool friends and Tom and I were friends. I've always wondered how Rod came out. It sounds like he had a very successful life of teaching and helping people. He was a great family man. My condolences to Linda and family. Mike Petitjean Emporia, KS (I graduated from Broookville High School in 1966)

- Michael L Petitjean, Emporia, KS

Dr. McAdams was always a joy to be around. There was not a day that he didn't bring smiles to the faces of the entire class. I enjoyed the times when we had conversations about sports and politics. He was an excellent professor, and I always looked forward to attending each of his classes. His knowledge of practically everything and amazing life encounters are characteristics I cherish the most about having the chance to get to know him. He is truly missed.

- Dustin Binkley, Savannah, GA

Skippy was a true treasure. I will remember him always.

- Sandy Streater, Savannah,, GA

I just got the news about Rod. So sorry to receive it and I would extend my love and sympathy to all his loved ones. Spent some quality time with him at our 50th reunion.

- Harvey Hoover, Colorado Springs, CO

Dr. McAdams was my professor at Armstrong from 2001-2006. I spent a lot of time in his classes for both Grad and Undergrad. One thing we always knew that his classes were going to be entertaining, a life lesson was going to be given, and you had to know about Kansas City Jayhawks as it may be a bonus on an exam. My condolences go out to the family. Wishing you peace and comfort and courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to always cherish.

- Sabrina Brown, SAVANNAH, GA

Prayers of good memories and peace to all of Rod's family.

- Helen Weber, Marquette, KS

I am so sad to hear of Rod's passing. He was a great colleague, a better teacher and the best friend. He was always cheerful and full of fun. We always new it was really winter when he wore long pants to work. Please accept my condolences for your loss and offer prayers during this difficult time. - Catherine Gilbert, Savannah, Ga

- , ,

Rod was a joy to work with and it was my honor to know him as a friend and colleague. We had many enjoyable walks around the campus each day, discussing both fun and complex challenges of life and work – in fact several times we decided to repeat our walks as we needed more time to complete discussing our ideas -– or we would finish our walk and each of us would run to our computers and google something to see who could first figure out the answer (it was always him!) As a friend, he was completely trustworthy and I was always amazed at what he knew about raising kids, cooking and cars! May you all find comfort in your memories as each family member meant so much to him – often our talks involved stories of each son and of course, Linda as he gave you credit for raising such amazing boys. Peace to you all, Janet

- Janet Buelow, Richmond Hill, GA

Sorry to hear of your great loss. Rod was one of a kind and the world will be different without him. Love Sandy and Michael

- Michael Dufault, Savannah, GA

Dr. McAdams was my professor at Georgia Southern University. He was dedicated to the success of his students and his joy of teaching was evident. His presence in this world will be missed. I am truly sorry for your loss and pray for peace and comfort for your family.

- Christina George, Bluffton , SC

I am sincerely sorry for your loss. I will remember Rod for his humor, intelligence, and relentless commitment to his teaching. Praying for comfort for your family.

- Paula Tillman, Richmond Hill, GA

It was May 3, 2023 and my wife Dina and I were saying that we could not believe that it has been almost 50 years since we obtained our masters degrees from the University of Akron. Then I had a passing thought and mentioned, "I wonder where our old friends Rod & Linda McAdams are." The next morning I googled Rod and was shocked and saddened to learn that he passed away in 2019. I met Rod in September of 1973, the first day of grad school registration and we immediately became friends. Rod was smart, had a great sense of humor and had a wonderfully positive personality. At a party he could light up the room. If you met him you had to become his friend. His wife Linda was equally as charming and his perfect complement. She was smart, a great mom to then one-year old baby Shane and managed their household while Rod pursued his dreams. For the next two years Rod and I spent many hours together in and outside of the classroom. We spent many a weekend exploring the numerous supply of low-cost drinking establishments throughout the Akron area. Yet we both still managed to graduate with honors. Now we were ready to take on the world. Two twenty-somethings with a masters degree under our belts and our lives ahead of us. There was nothing we couldn't accomplish. Rod was always very happy in an academic environment. It's no wonder that he obtained a PHD and became a university professor. I believe that was always his destiny. It's now May 7th and I just poured myself two fingers of bourbon to offer Rod a toast. Here's to you my friend! You accomplished a great deal in your life. You had a great education, had a wonderful wife and family, and a successful career doing just what you wanted to do. Yours was, indeed, a life well lived. I am very happy to have been your friend and will always value that friendship. CHEERS! To all those good times we shared so many years ago. Your friend, Steve Wolochowicz Class of 1975 University of Akron

- Steven Wolochowicz, St. Petersburg, FL