Andella, Rodney

Andella, Rodney L., “Rod”, age 57, of Somerville, died Saturday, February 28, 2009, at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston following a lengthy illness.

Rodney was born on January 24, 1952, in Boston, MA, he was the beloved son of the late Henry & Doris (Loder) Andella.

Rod was a long time resident of Somerville and drove tractor trailers for many years prior to becoming disabled. He was a sports fanatic enjoying all sports especially football. He was an honorary member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America and named Donor of the Year in 2007 on behalf of the Help Hospitalized Veterans organization. His giving nature was also demonstrated by his desire to donate his body for scientific research through the Anatomical Gift Program at Harvard Medical School.

While Rod lived his life “by doing it his way” he will be remembered by family and friends as a giving and caring person willing to give you the “shirt off his back”. He will be missed dearly.

Rodney is survived by his daughters Alison Stroop & her husband Dean of Pennsylvania, Christine Curtain of Billerica, and Ashley Murray of Somerville, his brothers and sister Gene “Sonny” Andella & his wife Donna of Weymouth, Henry “Jimmy” Andella, Jr. & his wife Debbie of Quincy, and Diane Koytila & her husband Marty of Tewksbury, his granddaughters Abigail & Margaret, Rod is also survived by many nieces, nephews, & cousins.

A memorial service will be held at the Abundant Life Christian Center, 173 Church St., Wilmington, on Saturday, March 7th at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial gifts in Rodney's name may be made to Friends of Harvard Medicine Fund, Attn: Gift Processing, Harvard Medical School Office of Resource Development, 401 Park Drive, Suite 22, Boston, MA 02215.

Arrangements under the direction of the Nichols Funeral Home, Inc., Wilmington.

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