Daniel Bruce "Rocky" "Danny" Rockelman

Daniel Bruce "Rocky" "Danny" Rockelman, 66, of Russellville passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020, south of Russellville. He was born February 2, 1954, at Latham Sanitarium in California, Missouri, the son of August Edward and Dorothy Louise (Hiemeyer) Rockelman. Danny was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Russellville. Early in life he helped his father with farming. He formerly volunteered with the Russellville Fire Department. Rocky was a 1972 graduate of Russellville High School and Linn State Technical College in 1974. He was a carpenter apprentice for Glen Leithauser, summers of '71-'72. Work followed at McGraw Edison, Von Hoffman Press, Best Western and as a mechanic in Jefferson City 1 years until he purchased the former Ozark Chair Factory building in Russellville, establishing himself in business as the owner of Dan's Auto Sales and Service. A passion for drag racing led to winning many trophies, including first place at Wentzville. Rocky's artistic endeavors created signage for several businesses as well as custom painting a 1968 Z-28 Camaro in shades of blue to silver for his little sister. Dan was gifted in drafting blueprints, building furniture, gardening, cooking, playing drums/singing and fixing many things besides cars, trucks or tractors. As a teen, he enjoyed dances at St. Martins. He also loved dogs. Danny was united in marriage February 11, 1981, and later divorced. He remarried on September 6, 2003. Survivors include a son, Daniel Rockelman; a sister, Elizabeth Rockelman; five first cousins, many other cousins, sisters/brothers-in-law and families; both spouses, step relations and a host of friends. Dan was preceded in death by Bettie (Moon) Besche, the mother of his son; parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, two first cousins and several other cousins. A memorial service will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 17, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Russellville with Pastor Ed Merckel and Pastor Howard Ellis. Church doors open at 9:00 a.m. Expressions of sympathy may be given to the church parking lot fund or charity of donor's choice.