Haverhill: Rodney Stuart "Rod" Griffin, 68, died peacefully at his home Friday morning surrounded by his loving family. Rod was the loving husband of Patricia (Abbott) Griffin. Born in Haverhill January 20, 1939 he was the son of the late William H. and Irene J. (Licier) Griffin.

While born in Haverhill, he was raised in Maine where he was a 1957 graduate of Old Orchard Beach High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served onboard the USS Goodrich where he was a talented musician in the ships orchestra. Rod went on to be a respected businessman who, along with his wife, owned and operated Griffin Catering for 35 years. He was a dedicated member of the American Legion where he served as Commander. He was, also, a life member of the Amvets where he was selected Man of the Year. Rod gave much of himself to other charities and organizations. Caring for others was a theme of his life.

Along with his wife of 44 years he is survived by his children, Joni Chabot and her husband Russ of Sandown, NH, William Griffin and his fiance Felicia White of Haverhill, Penny Diaz of Imperial Beach, CA; brother, Ralph Griffin and his wife Maureen of Maine; sisters, Ellie Gaudreau and her husband Bernie of Haverhill, Nancy Griffin, and Jackie Tierney, both of Maine, five grandchildren and one great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to the funeral Tuesday 10:00 at Dole, Childs & Shaw Funeral Home, 148 Main Street, Haverhill.