Varian (Dale) Rode

Varian “Dale” Rode, 89 of rural Aitkin-McGregor died Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at Diamond Willow in Grand Rapids.  He was born September 28, 1932 in Wisner, Nebraska to Reinold and Delilah (Hoefener) Rode.  He worked as a Machinist Inspector – Operator for Metal Matic Inc in Minneapolis for over 30 years. Dale was united in marriage to Janet (Leerssen) November 20, 1992 in Milbanks, South Dakota.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved the outdoors. He was a “Jack of all trades” who could fix just about anything.  He enjoyed working on and learning about cars, so much so, that he took a home course to become a mechanic and had no problem passing the tests.  He was a member of the NRA, Our Saviors Lutheran Church in McGregor and Mt. Olivet Church in Minneapolis.  He was preceded in death by 2 sons, 1 grandchild, 3 sisters and his parents. 

Dale is survived by his wife Janet;

6 children: Loren, Luvern, Candice, Nancy, Leann, and Meredith;

8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 1 brother;

His long-time hunting partners, the Skoglund Family;

and many other special relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be 11:00am – Monday, July 25, 2022 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in McGregor.  Pastor John Thomson will officiate.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church.  Private burial will be in Sunset Cemetery.  Arrangements are with McGregor Funeral Home & Cremation Services of McGregor.  Go to www.srtfuneral.com to leave a message of condolence.

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