Vern Rodacker died August 12 at Community Hospital of Anaconda with his wife of 43 years at his side. He was born in Fessenden, ND and graduated from Harvey High School in 1955. He enlisted in the United States Air Force soon after graduation. He served 17 years active duty stationed stateside and abroad.
After leaving the service he moved to Anaconda and he worked at the smelter where he met his wife Benetta. He and his family moved to Salt Lake City when the smelter closed. He worked at Kennecott, the Army Reserves and finally the Utah Air National Guard where he remained for 14 years and reached his retirement rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He and his wife moved back to Anaconda after he retired. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing and living in the country surrounded by the local wildlife.
He is survived by his wife Benetta, daughters Denise (Tony) Jensen and Kristie (Brittan) Heddlesten, sons Jon and Jay Rodacker and Robert (Kristie) Gardner, sisters Naomi Dahlstrom and Sharon (Bob) Calhiem, nephews Dale (Donna) Miller and Rob (Joyce) Miller, nieces Candyce (Kenny) Neubauer and Naomi Gwin. He also had several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Benjamin and Elsie, sister Delores and brothers-in-law Alex, Hank and Wayne. Memorial donations can be made to the American Legion of Anaconda.
Please offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Vern. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Vern and his family. There will be a graveside memorial with military honors held for family and close friends in late September.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Cheryl Holm says
So very to hear of the loss of our Uncle. My sisters, diane, vicky, jennifer and I all send our condolences