James N. Rodio

Rodio, James N., - 85 of Hammonton, NJ passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on March 1st, 2017.
Jim was born and raised in Rosedale, NJ and a lifetime resident of Hammonton, NJ. Jim graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1949. In that same year he began his radio career at the Columbia School of Broadcasting, until the United States Army called him to serve in the Korean War. He served in the Armed Services Radio until his honorable discharge in May of 1954. Upon his return he started his radio journey at WCMC Wildwood, WFPG Atlantic City, and then WPBS Philadelphia before coming back home and purchasing his own station WNJH Hammonton. Being a radio pioneer he saw the future of FM radio and in September of 1971 received license approval for what would become Unforgettable WRDR Radio 104.9FM. His Sound was unique and we can still here him announce every Saturday night "The Original Band Stand hosted by Ole JR". He was an active member and served as president of the NJ Broadcasters Association. A dream that started as a kid announcing into a broomstick became a sound that was heard all over South Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware.
Jim also enjoyed a love for his community, which was reflected in his involvement in many organizations and charities. Including but not limited to Hammonton Chamber of Commerce, Hammonton Kiwanis Club, Italian Sons & Daughters, the yearly celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and many boards and foundations to which he belonged. However, two of Jim's greatest passions were St Joseph HS Wildcatters and the Knights of Columbus St Vincent Pallotti Council. One of the founding members of the St Joe Wildcatters and SJ Booster Club he would always be seen at a St Joe sporting event. His passion for the St Joe Wildcats could only be rivaled to his long-standing membership and service to the Knights of Columbus.
Though Jim had many passions, he found tremendous joy through his family. Jim had a selfless love for his family and spending family time was important. Sunday pasta dinners were always the highlight of his week. He also enjoyed his walks with his buddies, golf outings, trips to Florida, Italy, Alabama, doing his daily crossword puzzles, watching EWTN and going to mass daily.
He is predeceased by his loving wife Julie (nee Palmieri) of 53 years of Marriage, his daughter Maryann Rodio, his parents, James & Mae Rodio, Sisters Delores & Regina Rodio. He is survived by his children, Carol Mongeluzzi of Villanova, Charles Rodio, Gigi DiDonato her husband John, and Gina Rodio all of Hammonton. His Grandchildren, Devon & Andrew Mongeluzzi, Jessica & Leah Rodio, and Zachary DiDonato. His brother Ronnie Rodio (Roe) of Northfield and Sister Martha Badagliacco (Joe) of Rosedale, and many nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held at St. Joseph Church Hammonton, Monday March 6th 5pm-9pm. Mass of Christian burial Tuesday March 7th 10am at the church, no viewing on Tuesday morning before the Mass. Burial in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Hammonton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks the contributions in Jim's memory be made to "The St. Joe HS Wildcatters, P.O. Box 438 Hammonton, NJ 08037 or The Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent Pallotti Council #3471, PO Box 5, Hammonton, NJ 08037. Arrangements entrusted to Marinella Funeral Home, Hammonton, (www.marinellafuneralhome.com)

Mass of Christian Burial

Tuesday, March 7, 2017
St. Mary Of Mt. Carmel Parish - St. Joseph Church 226 French Street Hammonton, New Jersey, United States 08037