ALBERT — Rodney Laverne ‘Rod’ Cushenbery, 67, passed away Aug. 20, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health Systems ER, Great Bend, Kan. He was born on Nov. 10, 1958, in Hutchinson, Kan., to Wilbur and Bertha (White) Cushenbery. On Nov. 10, 1979, he married Dianna Rossman in Olmitz, Kan.

A resident of Albert since 1979, Rod was a manager for the Albert branch of Great Bend Co-op, later becoming American Plains Co-op, prior to his retirement. He also served on the Albert Fire Department - including as assistant chief for a time - and was mayor of Albert for over 30 years. Rod was a member of Prince of Peace Parish. He enjoyed building and tinkering, particularly when welding was involved, and cherished time spent with family, especially his grandsons.

Survivors include his wife, Dianna Cushenbery of the home; two sons, Evan Cushenbery of Albert and Cale Cushenbery and wife Mollie of Gowrie, Iowa; two grandsons, Jackson Cushenbery and Lucas Cushenbery, both of Gowrie, Iowa; mother, Bertha Cushenbery of North Richland Hills, Texas; two brothers, Daryl Cushenbery and wife Tammy of North Richland Hills, Texas, and Douglas Cushenbery and wife Tami of Emporia; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father.

Cremation has taken place. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Bob Schremmer presiding. Inurnment will follow at Albert Cemetery. Visitation will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, with family receiving guests at 5 p.m., and vigil at 6 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to the Albert Fire Department, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 25, 2026