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Julie Heagney - - My deepest condolences to John, Phil and the rest of your family. My son Rafael played with Rod's son John on the Charles River Club Team many years ago when they were growing up. My husband Terry and I really enjoyed Rod's humor and commentary on the sidelines. He gave us white people a gentle introduction to some of the realities of being black, especially in the nearly white suburbs where we all lived. One day, when he brought his son to practice, he had been followed all the way by the Sherborn, MA police and I naively asked why that could happen, and he said, "Don't you know, I made the mistake of driving while black!" I was happy to see he made GFCC his spiritual home, and know they sorely miss him. He was a great guy, gone too soon.
Rod will be missed by so many. I A cool and calm observer with a wry, yet gentle, sense of humor, he had an interesting take on every situation - the good, the bad and the ugly. He was a wise and supportive father who had knack for putting things into perspective. Phil and John are reflections of his skilled parenting, and they will carry his legacy into the next generation. My deepest condolences to the whole Flakes family.
Rod was in the group I joined at DEC in 1974. Though we didn't work together for very long, he and I always got along very well and would run into each other from time to time over many years. I always liked him very much and thought he was a real "mensch." My condolences to his family.

Tom Hayden
We are so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. We were neighbors of Rod and Lynda in Boston and remember Rod as someone always willing to take a minute to stop and chat. He had an easy way about him which is something we will always remember. Rest In Peace Rod.

Arthur Coe & Ken Smith
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I'm deeply saddened to learn of Rod's passing. Rod co-founded a book club and discussion group for Black and Brown men, which I was fortunate enough to join. Several men from multiple generations and walks of life benefited from his wisdom, insights, and perspectives. I'm holding his family and loved ones in my heart, thoughts, and prayers.
Mr. Flakes had all the wisdom, but never pushed us too hard to follow it. Instead, he would suggest and let us make our own decisions, for better or worse. I sure will miss his joyful commentary, but yes, that will live on forever through Phil, Johnny, grandkids and the rest of the Flakes family. It already does. May you rest in peace, Mr. Flakes. I send much love and my deepest condolences.
I had the pleasure of working with Rod at DEC back in the 80's. I was a newcomer to the computer world, and Rod was a great help to me (and many others!). Always kind and cheerful, he was a treasure to work with. Heartfelt sympathies to all his family and friends.
Mr. Flakes was a college and lifetime friend of my parents Al Hall (deceased) and Lois Hall. I can’t recall a time that I didn’t hear about “Flakes,” as my dad referred to him. I recall numerous visits over the years. I loved hearing the stories of all of the college shenanigans and good times. Mr. Flakes felt like family. I was so saddened to hear of his Illness and passing. I wish peace and comfort to all who knew and loved him. May he rest in perfect peace.

- Lisa Hall Johnson.
My deepest condolences go out to Rod's family. I feel the loss of a kindred spirit. My closeness to Rod comes from our similar experiences graduating from an HBCU and making our way in the world as Black engineers, which we enjoyed reminiscing about.

Al Butler
To Rod’s family: please accept my condolences on your loss. I remember Rod from DEC with great fondness. He was witty and smart. courteous and kind and always had a word of encouragement for others. Sad to lose him. Rest In Peace Rod.
My prayers & condolences to Rod's family & friends. Rod was always willing to lead, contribute, help out, or simply provide sound counsel whenever he could . Whether at church (Greater Framingham Community Church), in a professional community (BDPA), in a local group (SMMC), or as a friend, he was always available. He will be missed.
My love goes out to you guys and your families. Mr. Flakes was like a 2nd dad to me. He was always there when I needed him with soothing encouragement and advice. Rod was was just an all around great man. He will surely be missed by all who knew him and those that crossed paths with him.
I will always remember your immense generosity and concern for my well-being and that of my family. You are loved and missed.
I light a candle for you Rod , you were a quiet storm of Knowledge may you rest in heavenly peace
We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Mr. Flakes. Our hearts are with the families right now. While it’s obviously expected to be sad at a time like this, we hope you can find it in your heart celebrate the extraordinary person he was in your own way. Sending strength and prayers . Love Nicholas and Tara Gudz
Mr. Flakes was a great man and great father. He raised impressive kids who have gone on to be very successful people. I remember his fun loving attitude - at every soccer game intensely pulling for us to win and encouraging us, but one of the few friendly faces there to pull us up, encourage us and make us laugh after a bad result. He has all of the qualities of a great family man - something we could all learn from and something that should transcend generations. The world lost one of the good ones. My love to Rod and the Flakes family.
Good man, excellent friend, super lunch partner, and a constant reminder to me that Black men do read!!
Orlando B. Lightfoot
The physical world lost another good man. Rod, or Mr. Flakes as I knew him growing up was a good father, friend to many and a good human being. I'll remember the rides with him to and from soccer games and the words of encouragement after a loss, his quick witted humor win or lose, and warm soft demeanor. Mr. Flakes you will be missed by all who knew you. John and Phil, our deepest condolences. God speed on your next journey Mr. Flakes, until we meet again....
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John and Phil,
I am so sorry for you loss. He raised two great men! All his actions helped mold you into the successes that you are today. Little buddy with his kind, hysterical, laid back soul, whose life revolves around his family. Phil, I will always remember as the A type, who would never give up, and has a great spirit for life. Both now have families and he will live on thru you.
"We live in and of each other, we will remain"
To All- we were so saddened to hear of your Dads passing. May you all be comforted by knowing he was a Dad who was at your side and did the very best he could everyday. Thinking and praying for all of you. May he have a safe journey Home and rest peacefully at the side of the Lord.
In deepest condolences,
Debra Tyrrell
John and Phil so sorry to hear of your father passing. Loved seeing him at the soccer field cheering the boys on. He will be missed but never forgotten!!!!
John, I’m heartbroken to hear of the loss of your Dad. I have many good memories of him during my years as a member of GFCC, the Men’s breakfasts, and Men’s choir. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
So sorry fellas. This is heartbreaking. I do know God has a plan, and he is in a better place now. I will always remember him as a kind soul and one of the nicest dads of all time. Always positive and kind. Big hug to you guys. Praying for you guys and your family.
I’m so so sorry for your loss. Your father was such a wonderful man whose amazing, good soul was evident to all of us who were lucky enough to spend time with him. May you be filled with wonderful memories in the days ahead. Love, Lauren and Lucas
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