Rodney 'Rod' Duane Henderson

Rodney Rod Duane Henderson, 58, of Rochester, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Saturday, April 21, 2012, following a three and a half year battle with esophageal cancer. Rod was born on June 25, 1953 in Spring Valley, MN. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, Southern School of Agriculture in Waseca, MN, in 1971. On September 16, 1978, he married the love of his life, Connie Meyers in Rochester, where they have resided since 1982. Due to failing health, Rod retired on December 31, 2011 from Best Western Soldiers Field Hotel & Suites, where he had worked for 30 years as the maintenance supervisor. Survivors include his loving and devoted wife, his sister Phyllis (Dan) Maloney of Rochester, a brother David, and parents, Doris and Carroll Henderson, all of Spring Valley, MN. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, in addition to his two constant and faithful canine companions, Mandi and Tasha. Rod enjoyed his work and life, approaching both with unsurpassed energy. His favorite past times were traveling, fishing, cutting wood, and spending time with family and friends. His passion was poker, and he became a very avid and well respected poker player. He will be dearly missed by many. Visitation will be at 3pm on Wednesday, April 25th, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 4pm at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. The family suggests memorials to Safe Haven Pet Rescue or Relay for Life of Olmsted County, c/o Rod Hendersons team, Hot Rods. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NWRochester, MN55901 (507) 289-3600www.ranfranzandvinefh.com