Beatrice Marian Hodge

Beatrice M. Hodge died peacefully at her home in Rochester, surrounded by her family on January 13, 2011.Beatrice was born on April 23, 1922 to Edward and Eleanor (Hautala) Gersic in Eveleth, MN. She spent her childhood years in Eveleth, graduating from high school in 1940. Bea moved to Rochester to attend the Kahler Hospitals School of Nursing. While a student she met her future husband, Harold W. Hodge. She graduated from Kahler on October 12, 1944 and 16 days later married Harold on October 28. Beatrice worked as an RN while Harold was serving in the US Navy overseas during WWII. Upon his return, they made their home in Rochester for 45 years, raising their family. They were both involved in many community organizations. Bea and Harold retired to Sun City West, AZ, and enjoyed many sunshine activities. Bea loved sewing, gardening and traveling with family and friends. She was a member of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Rochester and Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Sun City West. Bea is survived by her 4 children, Barbara of Red Wing, Mark (Anne DeMuth) of Fairbanks, AK, Brian (Lisa) of Rochester and Maryanne (Tom Vandini) of Sylvania, OH; 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Beatrice was preceded in death by her husband and a grandchild. The family requests that contributions be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. A Celebration of Beatrice's Life will be held for family and friends this summer.Online condolences can be sent at www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.