Rodney Jay Ehler, who was named First Team Class All-State, passed away on Friday.
Ehler, born on October 8, 1947, attended Fairview 50, Roosevelt Elementary, and Scottsbluff Junior High School before attending Western Nebraska Community College (WNCC) and Chadron State College.
His talent on the baseball field was undeniable. At just 15, he was called up to play Legion baseball, a rare honor that spoke volumes about his skill and potential.
In addition to his baseball talent, Rod also shone on the basketball court. He was named First Team Class A All-State, a prestigious recognition of his skill and leadership on the hardwood.
His athletic legacy was further honored in 1988 when he and his lifelong friend, Dean Palser, were inducted into the Chadron State Hall of Fame.
Later, he dedicated over 36 years to teaching physical education and coaching multiple sports.
His expertise and integrity on the court earned him the honor of officiating the 1987 Class A Boys’ State Basketball Championship with Dean.
Multi-Sports Coach Rodney Jay Ehler Died At The Age Of 77
Rodney Jay Ehler, a former physical educator and multisports coach, 77, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Mitchell Care Center. However, the cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Lisa O’Brien, an executive director at Newman Grove Housing Authority, took to her official Facebook page and mourned the tragic loss of Rodney. She wrote,
Oh man….Mr. Ehler was a legend in so many ways, so humble and kind, a mentor and motivator, he was truly one in a million. You left your mark on all who met you, taught us each a lesson or five….and I’m sure we can recall some good laughs we each had with you! Rest easy Coach….God Bless you 🙏🏼🫶🏼
Lisa O’Brien
Dave Brunz, who works at Star-Herald Sports, also offered his heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Rod’s family.
Some of the best conversations I ever had at a sporting event came from this man. It wasn’t always about sports, either. Mr. Ehler was one of the greatest dudes I have ever had the honor of knowing. May he rest in peace, and may God wrap his arms around his family, former students, and former athletes.
Dave Brunz
The family will host a time of remembrance to share memories of Rod with family and friends on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bridgman Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Rod’s life will take place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Evangelical Church in Scottsbluff, with Pastor Andy Griess officiating.
Online condolences can be made by viewing Rod’s memorial page at www.bridgmanfuneralhome.com.
Rod will always be remembered for his contributions as a baseball and basketball player, physical teacher, and coach. Rest in Heaven, Rodney Jay Ehler.
Rodney Jay Ehler Married Pam Conner After Separating From Glenda
As per the reports, Rodney Jay Ehler was married to Glenda for over 17 years.
Together, they experienced more travel than Rod had ever had before, coached side by side, and found joy in celebrating Christmas with their families.
Rod even taught Glenda to golf. However, they separated for an undisclosed reason.
Later, Rod married Pam Corner. Although Pam stayed away from the media spotlight, she always supported Rod in balancing his personal and professional life.
Sadly, their married life ended after several decades following the tragic death of Rod.
The couple raised their three children, Jay, Brooks, and Brock Ehler.
Brock studied at the University of South Carolina and later went to Chadron State College. He is in a relationship with Mary Sanchez, a health science instructor.
Recently, Brock took to his Facebook handle and mourned the death of his father. He wrote,
It is with a mixture of incredible sadness and honor that i share this. He was my hero, mentor, leader, friend. I could count on this man for anything I needed. He would stop ANYTHING immediately and make sure I had the help or answer I needed and/or was looking for. t is really hard to see my top contacts right now and see one the says… “dad’s cell”. I dont know how i will live knowing I can’t get an answer on the other side when 308-641-4093 is dialed. My dude = Rodney Jay Ehler. I love you. I will keep every memory close dad. You are “The Goat”.
Brock Ehler
Jay and Brooks are also mourning the death of their supportive and devoted father, Rodney Jay Ehler.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Rodney Jay Ehler grew up on the farm alongside his parents, Jack and Mary Ehler, and his two brothers, Gary and Jack Ehler.
- Rod’s 1966-67 Chadron State basketball team was inducted into the Chadron State Hall of Fame for representing Nebraska at the NAIA National Championship.
- His son Jay Ehler tied the knot with Sheri Ehler, an elementary school principal at Sidney Public School.
