Rodney J. Herstich

Rod Herstich, 72 of Uniontown, OH passed away on November 22nd, 2025 surrounded by his wife and kids. Rod was born to Mike and Stella Herstich in Youngstown, OH but spent the majority of his childhood growing up in Tallmadge, OH. It was there he grew his love for sports, and would often talk about his time playing quarterback for St V. He spent 40 years in the beverage distribution industry as a Sales Manager, and was always the go-to guy when you needed something for a party or tickets to an event.

Rod and his wife of 51 years, Vonny, together raised three children in Uniontown, OH. For better or worse, he made sure all three kids grew up avid Cleveland sports fans. They would spend countless hours watching the Browns, Cavs, and Indians, often getting tickets from Rod’s work. If they weren’t watching together, you could count on a call or text from Rod right after a score, bad play, or another starting Brown’s quarterback disaster.

There wasn’t anything Rod was prouder of than his kids and their accomplishments, that is until he had grandchildren. Nothing would light Rod up more or make him happier than one of his 7 grandchildren showing up to visit, playing a sport, or participating in a school event. He loved them more than anything, and they loved their Papa. Some of his best memories were from when the entire family would travel to the Outer Banks, and they would spend countless hours on the beach playing games until sunset. Uncle Rod always made sure the fridge and coolers were well stocked.

Rod is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vonny Herstich. His three children Nicholas (Katie) Herstich, Justin (Amy) Herstich, and Allie (Jim) Morgenstern. Rod’s seven grandchildren Braden, Adeline, Noah, Reese, Emma, Grace, and Nellie. His siblings, Ken (Char) Herstich, Sandy (Howard) Williams, Colleen Herstich and many of his nieces, nephews, and extended family that he so dearly loved.

A family mass and celebration of life will be held on Thursday December, 4th at St Vincent’s church in Akron, OH with visitation at 11am followed with mass at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests you mail a donation to St Vincent-St. Mary High School, For: “John Cistone Field” to 15 N. Maple St, Akron, OH 44303 in Rod’s honor.