Who was born in Waseca County on June 27, 1918? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was one of the many great people to graduate from New Richland High School? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was proud to serve his country in the U.S. Army? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who married Sylvia Tukua on June 5, 1943 in Santa Ana, California? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who, with wife Sylvia and family, came back to New Richland after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who, with wife Sylvia’s permission, shuffled the sleeping arrangements so that Robert Tollefson, Carol Tollefson, and Robert Hanson could stay at their house one spring in the early 50’s when the New Richland High School bus couldn’t get through the frost-boiled muddy roads? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who helped (in person, on the phone, and via the mail) Robert Hanson (me) get into Naval Intelligence (spying on Russia)? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who worked at, and later became owner of, the Our Own Hardware store in New Richland, receiving many awards along the way? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was proud to serve New Richland in any way he could? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was a faithful servant to God, both in his church and outside his church? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was the person whose life on Earth revolved around God, family, and community? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was the person who always spoke to me and gave me his great infectious chuckle when he saw me volunteering at the Albert Lea Medical Center? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who, in a wheelchair this May, with wife and daughter, stopped while I was on my hands and knees at the Gift Shop in the Albert Lea Medical Center, and said “Goodbye?” Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who was honored to have his great-grandchildren sing “Jesus Loves Me” at his funeral service? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
Who is now dwelling in a place prepared for him? Gene Dodge, that’s who.
———
Bob is a retired AAL (Aid Association for Lutherans) agent, currently working on his master’s degree in Volunteering. His wife, Genie, is a retired RN, currently working on her doctor’s degree in Volunteering. They have two children, Deb in North Carolina, and Dan in Vermont. Bob says if you enjoy his column, let him know. If you don’t enjoy it, keep on reading, it can get worse. Words of wisdom: There is always room for God.