Obituary: Rodney ‘Babe’ Wayne Tardiff, 82, Of South Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): Rodney “Babe” Wayne Tardiff, 82, of South Meriden, CT, passed away on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Sheila E. (Schuyler) Tardiff.

Rodney was born in Caribou, Maine, June 25, 1941, a son of the late Arthur L. and Gertrude E. (Walton) Tardiff. He was raised in Maine and joined the U.S. Army where he proudly served as a Paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. After his military service, Rodney worked at Birdseye Corp. then at the Pinkham Lumber Division of Great Northern in Maine. His career then took him to Connecticut where he was a Power Plant Engineer at Yale University until his retirement.

Rodney enjoyed flyfishing, snowmobiling and drag racing cars and boats. He dedicated his life to helping others in many ways, including, teaching and mentoring family and friends, lending his skill and knowledge where needed and giving wood that he split to help heat friend’s homes.

Rodney will be remembered for always helping others further themselves and achieve a better life.

In addition to his wife, Sheila, Rodney will be missed by his children, Randy W. Tardiff (Kimberly), Ryan K. Tardiff, Craig L. Tardiff (Lisa Sconte), and Nicole E. Tardiff; his grandchildren, Tyler, Cecilia, Jerry, Chad, Kyle, Katie and Randi; his great grandson, Axel; his siblings, Phillip Tardiff, Jerry Tardiff (Maryellen), Bonnie Tardiff and Robert Tardiff; his brothers-in-law, Michael Herringshaw (Timothy), and Peter Herringshaw (Sharon); and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Lance A. Tardiff; his brothers, James Tardiff and Larry Tardiff; and his brothers-in-law, Richard Schuyler and Paul Schuyler.

Funeral services and interment in Walnut Grove Cemetery will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of The Yalesville Funeral Home.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.