ROCKWELL — Jody J. Sundvold, 58, of Rockwell, a hardworking handyman and devoted father whose sense of humor, energetic personality and love for tinkering made him memorable to family and friends, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at his home.
A celebration of Jody’s life will be held Monday, November 16, from 10 a.m. until noon at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 North Pennsylvania Avenue, in Mason City. A time of sharing will begin at 11:30 a.m., officiated by Pastor Linda Johnson-Prestholt.
Jody was born April 12, 1968, in Mason City, alongside his twin brother, Jay. He was the son of Jake Jackson and Sandie Chapin.
Growing up, Jody was outgoing, energetic and rarely content to sit still. He enjoyed spending time with friends and was known for a lively personality that could bring laughter into almost any situation.
He attended the North Central School District in Manly, where he graduated from high school. During his school years, he also enjoyed working behind the scenes as part of the stage crew for several theatrical productions.
That willingness to get involved and work with his hands would remain a defining part of his life.
Following graduation, Jody worked a variety of jobs, gravitating toward construction, maintenance and mechanical work.
He enjoyed figuring out how things operated, making repairs and taking on projects that required practical skills and persistence.
His interest in fixing and building things extended well beyond the workplace.
At home, Jody could often be found working on do-it-yourself improvements, tinkering with his cars or finding another project to keep himself occupied. Staying busy came naturally to him, and he found satisfaction in working with his hands.
Jody also had a lifelong affection for dogs and enjoyed their companionship.
During one chapter of his life, he played adult softball, an activity that brought him together with a close group of friends. Those friendships became an important part of his life, offering opportunities for good times, laughter and lasting memories.
But some of the moments that mattered most to Jody were those he shared with his children, Schyler and Tanner.
They remember spending time with their father riding bicycles, playing computer games and enjoying everyday activities together.
Jody also made an effort to be present for important occasions in their lives, including attending their high school dances to take photographs.
Those moments reflected his affection for his children and his desire to share in their experiences as they grew older.
Jody’s personality was another quality that friends and family will carry in their memories.
He had a natural sense of humor and retained the playful spirit of a class clown well into adulthood. He enjoyed making people laugh and could bring a lighthearted approach to ordinary situations.
Whether spending time with friends, working on a project or visiting with relatives, Jody’s outgoing nature was a familiar part of his presence.
Jody is survived by his children, Schyler (Charlie) Weiner and Tanner Sundvold; his wife, Laura Sundvold; and his stepchildren, Josie and Ann Buege.
He also leaves behind several grandchildren; his brothers, Jay Chapin and James (Micheal) Chapin; his sister, Shannon Chapin; his mother and stepfather, Sandie and James Chapin; and many extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jake Jackson, and his grandparents, Orville and Ovila Sundvold.
For those who knew Jody, the memories will include his laughter, his willingness to tackle another project, the friendships formed on the softball field and the moments he shared with his children.
His life was marked by an energetic spirit, a love of working with his hands and an ability to find humor in the world around him.
Family and friends may share memories, offer condolences and find additional service information through Major Erickson Funeral Home’s obituary for Jody J. Sundvold.
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