Rodney "Rod" Charles Pedersen

Rodney “Rod” Charles Pedersen, 80, of Alborn, Minnesota, passed away on April 29, 2023 after a brief battle with Leukemia at Essentia St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth. He was surrounded by his immediate family, grandchildren, brother, sister, nieces, and nephews.   

Rodney was born in Duluth to Charles and Olga (Ostman) Pedersen on 10/22/1942. He went to school at Alborn (1-12) and was in its final graduating class of 1960. He worked as a Drop Forge Hammerman at Diamond Tool and Horseshoe Company for 33 years. Throughout his life Rodney supplemented the family income by being the “Lucky Logger” of firewood, and sawmill owner/operator. Following Diamond Tool’s closing Rodney worked several short term jobs ending with the D.M.&I.R.  

Rodney loved the outdoors in Northern Minnesota. He loved spending his time with family and friends camping and fishing. He was an avid hunter who especially enjoyed deer hunting camp with his son Greg, brother Darrell, best friend Royce, along with several other family and friends along the way. In the winter months Rodney and Janice enjoyed snowmobiling with cousins and close friends.

Throughout the last 26 years, most of Rod’s happiest moments were found when he was with his grandchildren. As a Grandfather, he was always available to care for his grandchildren. As they grew older he could be counted on to attend their many sporting events and school performances. He was a willing driver whenever they needed one. Once retired, he enjoyed wintering in Wildwood, Florida where many new friends and new adventures were found.    

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Olga Pedersen.

Rodney is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janice (Ernst) Pedersen; son, Greg (Kathy); daughters, Stacey (Doug) Tevik and Heather (Jeff) Adkins; and grandchildren, Katelyn, Kasey, Rochelle, Hunter, Danielle and Dillon; sister, Judi (Ernie) Mattson; brother, Darrell (Jennifer) Pedersen; many cherished nieces and nephews; and last but not least, his devoted dog, Sadie.

Rodney was a lifelong active member of various Lutheran churches starting with his baptism in the Alborn church and ending with his memorial service at Faith Lutheran in Culver. 

Visitation will be held at Noon on Saturday, May 6th at Faith Lutheran Church, 5697 Hwy 7, Culver with Memorial service to follow at 1:00 PM.

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