Rodney Baudeck

Rodney David Baudeck
Rodney David Baudeck, 71, Hibbing, died Monday, January 16, 2012 at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN.  He was born in Pontiac, MI to Charles and Clara Baudeck on November 20, 1940, moved to Togo in Bear River to the family farm and eventually to Chisholm. Rod was a humble man, always wanting others to be happy and would give to anyone in need.  He loved and cherished his family and the extended families of his son Aaron’s friends, and of course, his co-workers.  Rod would rarely share his exceptional life experiences with others unless it was a funny story because he had such a great sense of humor.  He brought a smile to all he met. He loved planning class reunions, going to garage sales to hunt for treasures, and country music. Rod’s military career encompassed 8 years.  He spent time in Germany as a military advisor and communications specialist and in Vietnam as a medic. He was a member of the Chisholm National Guard.  Rod had a strong sense of community.  He helped establish the first volunteer fire department in Chisholm. He developed and taught snowmobile training for the city of Chisholm.  He served as a Boy Scout Leader. In later years, he served on the Hibbing Police and Fire Commission, always standing strong, and always fighting for the members of these departments.  He was a director on the fifth Senate district DFL board and spent many years campaigning for many candidates, from presidents, congress, governors, and state and local races. Rod was district manager for Inner City Gas in Chisholm.  He developed the safety and security program for Bechtal Corporation.  He co-founded Homecare Specialists and Baudecks Retail Outlets. Later he developed a statewide medical transportation program, Care-A-Van.  But most importantly was his family and his relationships with others. He was a hockey Dad, soccer coach, youth baseball coach, and coached the first JV soccer team at Hibbing High School.  This humble and loving man will be missed by many.
He is survived by his wife, Cathy, children,  Aaron (Jennifer) Baudeck, Adam (Honey) Larson, and Eva (Brian Blanchard) Jourdan, his brother, Richard Baudeck, and step sister, Ann Marie McLaughlin, 6 grandchildren, Ellie Baudeck, Sophia Baudeck, Gloria Larson, Heidi Larson, Alia Larson, and Sylus Larson.  Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Ann.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm. Saturday, January 21, 2012 in the Dougherty Funeral Home with the Rev. Fr. Anthony Craig officiating. Visitation will begin at Noon.  Military Honors will be accorded by the VFW 8510 Honor Guard. You may sign the online guestbook at www.doughertyofhibbing.com.

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