Dwayne Bodde
Dwayne Bodde, age 73 of Barrett, Minnesota, passed away Sunday, June 7, 2026.
Memorial gathering for Dwayne Bodde will be held Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Kensington Community Center. Friends and family are invited to come together in remembrance, sharing stories, and honoring the profound loss of a man whose gentle spirit touched many.
A proud graduate of Hoffman Public Schools, Dwayne furthered his journey through some college studies before embarking on a career that mirrored his hardworking nature. His hands and heart found their places in varied roles — from the rugged labor on the tie gang of the Northern Sioux Railroad, replacing railroad ties under wide open skies, to the heavy-duty driving of trucks, including the beet truck each fall season. He later lent his skilled craftsmanship to Barrett Machine Shop and Kensington Manufacturing as a machinist, where his precision and steady hands shaped metal and machinery alike.
Dwayne’s military service stands as a testament to his loyalty and courage. Serving in the US Army as an MP Canine dog handler, he was stationed in Germany, where he fulfilled his duties before being honorably discharged. This chapter of his life is a proud mark of his commitment to his country.
His personal passions painted the quieter, more vivid strokes of his story. A man who loved the outdoors and the simple pleasures it offered, Dwayne found serenity and joy in gardening, fishing, and hunting. His fondness for animals extended beyond these pursuits — he deeply loved his dogs and took pleasure in raising ducks, nurturing life around him with a tender hand. Evenings were often filled with laughter as he watched B List martial arts movies with his daughter, Leona, sharing moments of delight in poking fun at the dialogue and special effects. The walls of his home echoed to the vigorous sound of rock & roll albums spinning loudly on his stereo systems, a soundtrack to the chapters of his life. Travel and spending time with his nephews also enriched his days, weaving a rich fabric of memories with family.
Dwayne is survived by his daughter: Leona (Andrew) Smith of Ashby, MN; and his brother Del (Margie) Bodde of Alexandria, MN; along with numerous nephews; and a host of friends
He is preceded in death by his loving parents: Dick and Rensina (Shurr) Bodde; and his wife: Sheryl.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family to place a donation in Dwayne’s memory.
Flowers may be delivered to the Community Center after 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Arrangements are with the Erickson-Smith Funeral Home in Hoffman, MN.
