Robert "Rocky" J. Pence, 66 of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away while surrounded by loving family Saturday, November 2, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City due to complications of cancer.

Services are 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 8, 2019 at Shueyville United Methodist Church, Shueyville, IA with Pastor Brody Tubaugh officiating.

Visitation is 3-7 p.m. Thursday at the church. A private family burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery, Cedar Rapids at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to American Cancer Society or Aiming for a Cure Foundation. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com.

Rocky was born December 29, 1952 to Myron R. and Darline A. (Tharp) Pence in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He graduated from Washington High School. Following school, Rocky joined the work force in the construction industry. Rocky worked for Concrete Maintenance Company, he began RJ Construction which he co-owned and operated with Jerry Williams for a couple of years before going to work for Rathje Construction where he worked for 32 years, retiring in 2014. April 19, 1975 Rocky married Karen Curttright at the Olivet Presbyterian Church. Together they raised their two boys in Cedar Rapids.

Rocky was an avid outdoorsman, hunting, fishing and saving abandoned or injured animals. He enjoyed traveling with Karen, collecting cans, scrap metal, and working on old cars. His passion for the sport of wrestling was infectious and passed it on to his boys, which he was so proud of all their accomplishments. Rocky was an amazing grandfather who cherished his granddaughters and enjoyed every moment spent with them. He was a care giver to many and his love for family and friends was unbreakable.

He is survived by his wife, Karen of Cedar Rapids; sons, Matt (Shelly) Pence of Shueyville, Ricky (Mary) Pence of Cedar Rapids; brother, Mike (Patty) Pence of Cedar Rapids; favorite sisters, Nancy (Danny) Albert of Ladora, Becky (Charlie) Miller, of Cedar Rapids; aunt, Ruth "Babe" (Wayne) Duede of Cedar Rapids; sister-in-law, Judy (Doug) Schoff of Mt. Vernon; grandchildren, Morgan, Maya, Savanna; special friends, Don Adams, Ken Rathje, Terry Rentschler, Steve Henecke; and many more nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rocky was preceded in death by his parents; step-father Chuck E. Burlingham and granddaughter Hailey.