Obituary
Rodney Glen Blank
Rodney Glen Blank, 73, passed away surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a life marked by service, faith, friendship, and love.
Rodney was raised in La Crescent, Minnesota, the son of Harold and Anna Blank.
He proudly served as a United States Marine during the Vietnam era. He was assigned to Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1), supporting presidential transport for Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. His time in the Marine Corps remained a lifelong source of pride.
After his military service, Rodney devoted himself to public service. He worked in law enforcement in Stoddard, Wisconsin, and later in Westby, Wisconsin, and also provided security at the power plant in Genoa, Wisconsin. He went on to serve as Chief of Police in Hokah, Minnesota, a position he held for 28 years. He was known for his fairness, integrity, and steady commitment to helping others.
Rodney’s service extended beyond his career. His faith in God guided his life, and alongside his wife, Emma, he spent nearly 35 years sharing music and fellowship in churches and nursing homes throughout the region. Together, they offered music, companionship, and encouragement wherever they went. His faith was reflected in the way he treated others—with kindness, presence, and quiet service.
He enjoyed working with his hands, time in the garage, music, and good conversation. He was a loyal friend, had a natural way with children, and was always willing to help someone in need.
Above all, Rodney loved his family.
He was a devoted husband to Emma, a loving father to Carmen (John), Ryan (Bryn), and Kyle (Chelsea), and a proud grandfather. Being “Bumpa” to Ariana and Silas was one of his greatest joys.
Rodney is survived by his wife, Emma; his children, Carmen (John), Ryan (Bryn), and Kyle (Chelsea); his grandchildren, Ariana and Silas; his sister, Ellen (Paul); his brother, Ronnie (Jane); and many extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Harold Blank; his parents-in-law, Violet and Earl Johnson; and his brother-in-law, Earl Johnson. Rodney’s life made a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the communities he served. His legacy lives on through the people he helped, the music he shared, and the love he gave so freely.
His family finds comfort in his faith in Christ and in knowing he is at peace after a life devoted to God, family, country, and community.
A funeral service honoring Rodney’s life will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, at La Crescent United Methodist Church. He will receive a police escort to the church in recognition of his service in law enforcement.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., with the service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date.
Semper Fi, Rodney. Until we meet again.
Emma I was so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. My mom and dad (Donna and Ernie Sloan) thought the world of Rod. He did treat others with kindness. Mom always liked when you played at Bay Harbor and would asked if Rod would be there too. You have that same kindness. I remember you stopped in to see mom in her last days. I will not forget.
I am sorry I will not be able to attend Rod’s celebration of life because of previous commitment.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hold on to all the memories.
Thank you Rod for your service to our country and Hokah.
Pat (Sloan)Heydon
sorry for lost
Emma and family. My deepest sympathies. Rod was such an amazing man may he rest in peace. My love to you Emma.
I went to H.S. with Rod. Remembering him as a great guy! Condolences to his family.
May Rodney’s love of Life be continued through his wife Emma with song and prayer. Lord be with Emma and her family in the days until they meet again. Rest in Peace.
Dear Emma,
Connie and I are keeping you in our prayers during this time of separation and grief. Times like this are real tests of our faith. May God’s promise that NOTHING can separate us from the love of Christ and His promise of resurrection and reunion with those we love sustain you.
Forever your friends,
Dave and Connie Guetzke
Emma and family. My deepest sympathies. Rod was such an amazing man may he rest in peace. My love to you Emma.
Dear Emma and family
so sorry for your loss
i was out of town on work just got back or i would of came to funeral
Rod was great man
use to have fun playing raquet ball
he could really hit the ball
if you need anything please dont hesitate to call.
sincerely
Mike OReilly
To Emma and family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I went to school with Rod and followed him on Facebook to keep in touch. He had a great sense of humor. A great man. He will be missed by many.
Sonia Dahl-Griggs
Emma, Karla told us of Rod’s passing. So sorry for your loss. Memories will keep him in your heart always. Keeping you and your family in prayer.
Emma and family, Sending our condolences and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. We know saying goodbye to someone so special and loving is incredibly hard. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Emma and Family,
I was so saddened to hear about Rod. He was truly a remarkable person, and I will always remember him fondly from our high school days. I also wanted to express my deepest gratitude for his dedicated service to both the Marine Corps and as the police chief of Hokah, Minnesota. His commitment to his community and country was truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by so many people. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time sending my deepest sympathy and prayers.
Jim Redalen
Dear Emma. We are so sorry to learn of Rod’s passing. The two of you made such beautiful music together. It was always such a fun moment when Rod would announce on FB Sundays at Olivet, “Go Vikings!” We extend our condolences to you and your family and pray that God will help you through these difficult times.
Dennis and Luanne Sorenson