RODNEY “ROD” HORSNALL (Pudge)

Rodney “Rod” Horsnall, affectionately known as “Pudge,” passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at his favourite place on Friday, October 2nd, 2026.  

Born July 4th, 1957, to Ron and Dorothea (Sally) Horsnall, Rod grew up the oldest of six children.  His family gave him the ironic nickname “Pudge” in which he grew right into.  Fittingly, he became famous for giving others their own lasting nicknames, including his two youngest kids, “Bubba” and “Beaver.”  

Rod followed in his father’s footsteps, starting at the CPR at just 15 years old.  He dedicated 39 years to the railway, starting in the shops and moving into the running trades before retiring as a locomotive engineer at the age of 55.  His son, Jarred, proudly continued that family legacy, following in his own footsteps to become a locomotive engineer as well.  

Selling his first car at 16, Rod turned his lifelong passion for buying and selling vehicles into a business when he founded Pudge’s Auto Sales in 1988, operating it until his final days.  His handshake was his word.  He fiercely instilled this work ethic in his children, raising his daughters to be capable women by refusing to let them be labeled girls.  Pudge cared about getting the job done right.  With a house full of daughters and a lot full of cars, he lived by his famous trademark advice: “tits and tires cause nothing but grief.”  He also gave back by sponsoring numerous youth sports teams including his children’s and grandchildren’s.  

Rod deeply valued loyalty.  After his father passed in 2009, he was exceptionally dedicated to looking after his mother, Sally, ensuring her lake house was perfectly ready for her every summer.  

He cherished life’s pleasures with his loving wife of 49 years, Terry, spending the last 14 winters in San Tan Valley, Arizona.  He loved golfing, hanging out with the boys, and playing slo-pitch as the home run king for Pudge’s Rowdies in his younger years, where he was famous for hosting legendary post-tournament pool parties.  His incredible circle of friends visited the car lot daily, where they playfully terrorized each other.  Rod was the ultimate go-to guy; he always “knew a guy” for whatever was needed.  

Rod was immensely proud of his wife and kids, holding a special place for his son-in-law Brett, who was truly like a son.  He loved his kids, but everyone knew he might have loved his grandkids even more, who fondly called him “Papa Pudge” and “Grandpa Pudge.”  

Rod is survived by his wife, Terry; his children, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren; his mother, Sally; his five younger siblings; his special aunt and uncle, Betty Ann and Roger Labreche; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He will be profoundly missed by: Jennifer and her children Julia, Ryan, and Tyson (children Brynleigh, Tate); Michelle and her children Josh (Poonam), Mariah (Chris, son Hudson), and Brooklyn (son Emmet); Amanda and husband Brett (children Cooper, Declan); and Jarred (children Brooke, Clara).  

In keeping with Rod’s wishes, a private family interment will take place.  However, because Pudge loved a good party, a large Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 10th, 2026 at the Heritage Inn in Moose Jaw, starting at 7:00 p.m. and a good party we will have.  Although we wish we could have a pool party, we will definitely make this one to remember.  Donations in his memory may be made to The Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Cara Ashworth, Funeral Director 306-693-4550