Obituary of Rodger William Bradford
In Loving Memory of Rodger William Bradford
December 9, 1944 – July 6, 2026
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Rodger William Bradford, who passed peacefully on July 6, 2026, in Oroville, California, at the age of 81.
Rodger was born on December 9, 1944, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Virgil and Evelyn Overton Bradford, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved sister, Janice Marie Bradford, and brother, Richard Bradford.
The love story that defined much of Rodger’s life began when he married the love of his life, Marie Linda Escalante Bradford, in Reno, Nevada, in 1968. Together they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, adventure, and unwavering devotion to one another. Their partnership was marked by laughter, resilience, and countless cherished memories.
Rodger was a proud graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Class of 1963. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He served honorably as an Electronics Technician specializing in radar repair from 1963 until his honorable discharge in 1967. His military service reflected the dedication, discipline, and strong work ethic that would characterize his entire life.
A man of deep faith, Rodger devoted himself to serving the Lord and his church communities throughout his life. For the last twenty years, he was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oroville, California. There, he served in many capacities including Usher, Head Usher, Youth Camp Leader, and Sunday School Teacher. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and enthusiastically supported church events, especially the annual yard sale. His warm smile, servant’s heart, and love for people left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Rodger embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He was a passionate garage sale enthusiast who never passed up the opportunity to discover a hidden treasure. He loved camping, fishing, canoeing, water skiing, buying and selling cars and boats, and tackling rebuilding projects of all kinds. A talented home mechanic and handyman, there was rarely a problem he couldn't solve with patience, ingenuity, and a well-stocked toolbox.
He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed cheering for the Oakland Raiders and Oakland Athletics. Rodger and Marie shared a love of travel, making precious memories together on frequent trips to Hawaii, numerous cruises, and road adventures through Idaho, Canada, and throughout the Western United States.
Perhaps most of all, Rodger loved spending time with family and friends. As a Boy Scout Leader and self-proclaimed "Coordinator of Games," he brought joy, laughter, and friendly competition wherever he went. He believed that life was meant to be enjoyed and shared, and his playful spirit made every gathering brighter.
Rodger leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory forever: his devoted wife, Marie Linda Escalante Bradford; his sons, Rodger Antonio Bradford and partner Sarah Carlson, and Michael Allen Bradford and spouse Debra DeSpain Bradford; his granddaughter, Annastasia Jean-Marie Bradford Sandoval and spouse Jose Sandoval; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Aurora Celeste, Cayden Reign, and Violette Storm, who brought immense joy to his later years.
He is also survived by his brother, Randall Bradford; nephews, James Bradford and Virgil Bradford; brothers-in-law, Arthur S. Escalante and wife Karen, Anthony M. Escalante and wife Penny; and Louie Escalante, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Rodger will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his servant’s heart, his love of adventure, his sense of humor, and the kindness he extended to everyone he met. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the countless memories that will continue to bring comfort and smiles for generations to come.
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
Though he will be deeply missed, Rodger's family finds peace in knowing that he is now home with his Lord and Savior, reunited with those who have gone before him, and forever held in God's loving embrace.
Services entrusted to:
Oroville Funeral Home
530-533-0323