Curtis Melvin Dodge

CURTIS MELVIN DODGE, age 76, of Rochester passed away on the morning of Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Mayo Clinic Health System – Methodist Campus in Rochester.

Born on August 17, 1948, in Albert Lea, Curtis was the son of Gene and Sylvia (Tukua) Dodge. He grew up in New Richland, where he attended New Richland High School, excelling in wrestling and making it to state. He furthered his education at Augustana University in Sioux Falls before embarking on a long career at Rochester Rent-All, from which he later retired.

In 1968, Curtis married Kathy Blessing at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, and they had two children, Beth and Michael Gene. After their divorce, Curtis found the love of his life when he met Sue Roberts at work. They were married in 1978 at Trinity Lutheran Church, and their marriage of 44 years was filled with love, laughter, and a cherished blended family.

Curtis was known for his strong and quiet demeanor. He believed in leading by example, working hard, and always ensuring his family was cared for. He had a love for fast cars, enjoyed dancing with his wife, telling jokes, and making memories with those closest to him. He was passionate about deer hunting, fishing, and looked forward to annual trips with his friends and family. He loved traveling and recently took the trip of his lifetime to Alaska with his special family friend, Kathy Brakebill, brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Lorraine Dodge.

A lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, Curtis found peace and strength in his faith. He was also a devoted fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins.

Curtis is survived by his children, Beth (Kevin) Tostenson of Rochester, Michael (Loretta) Dodge of Rochester, Michael (Danika) Stagemeyer of Rochester; grandchildren, Kevin Tostenson Jr., Troy Stagemeyer, Thoran Stagemeyer, Shauna Dodge, Sierra Learmont, Michael Learmont, Cody Bale, Wyatt Dahle; many great-grandchildren, siblings, Karen (David) Jacobson of New Richland, Mark (Lorraine) Dodge of Brooklyn Park, Mary (Larry) Berg of Hartland; and brother-in-law, Gerry Blouin of Ellendale.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Dodge; parents, Gene and Sylvia Dodge; brother, Michael Gene Dodge; and sister, Ruth Ann Blouin.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Following the service, interment will follow at St. Olaf Cemetery. 

Curtis will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his quiet strength, and his joyful spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, adventure, and dedication to those who knew him.