Ronald E. GoedkenSeptember 30, 1931 - August 06, 2010 Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather & Educator - Age 78
Survived by loving wife of 56 years, Virginia “Kitty” Goedken; daughter, Ann G. Edwardson (John) of Eagan, MN; sons, Ronald J. (Susan) of Eagan, MN & Robert S. (Carolyn) of Edina, MN; sister, Vivian Heffele of Adrian, MN; brother, Cyril Goedken of Ashton, IA; two grandchildren, Kate & Eric Edwardson; and many nieces & nephews. Preceded in death by daughter, Mary Goedken; and parents, Leo & Regina Goedken. Ron was a graduate of St. Adrian High School, St. Mary’s University Winona, MN (Bachelor of Science), and the University of Minnesota (Doctorate in Education). After college he served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. He began his career in education as a math and science teacher and coach at Goodhue High School. In 1958 he joined District 191 as a teacher and coach at Burnsville High School; in 1966 he opened Metcalf Junior High as the first Principal; and in 1969 became Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools. He was the Superintendent of the School District of Elmbrook, Brookfield, WI, a suburban Milwaukee district of about 7,000 students for 17 years from 1972 – 1989. After retiring from Elmbrook, Ron became a professor of education at St. Mary’s University in the Twin Cities from 1989 – 2007. He was involved with over 1,100 students in the preparation of their summary papers for the Master of Arts Program in Education. Known for his hard work and dedication in the field of education, Ron has touched the lives of thousands of students and teachers for over 50 years. He unselfishly used the many gifts that God blessed him with to benefit others and his leadership helped inspire others in promoting the common good. A kind, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ron enjoyed baseball, football, and reading. He was a member of the Church of St. John Neumann where he volunteered as a reader and sacristan at Mass and helped with funeral hospitality. A special thank you to all the staff at United Hospital & N.C. Little Hospice. Funeral InformationMass of Christian Burial 4 PM Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at the Church of St. John Neumann, 4030 Pilot Knob Rd., @ Deerwood Dr.,Eagan, with a visitation from 2 – 4 PM at church. Supper to follow the Mass. Private family entombment. Donations InformationMemorials preferred to the Church of St. John Neumann Pastoral Care or St. Mary’s University – Master of Arts in Education Program 2500 Park Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55404-4403 DirectionsService: Map to St. John Neumann Cemetery: Resurrection Cemetery |
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