David Kirk ROE

Notes:

Roe, David K. age 92, of Apple Valley; passed away peacefully on February 13, surrounded by family. Preceded in death recently by loving wife of 70 years, Audrey; parents Leona and Ole Roe; brother Marion R. Roe; sister Leola Grand; grandson Ryan Olson. Survived by daughters Judy Grudem, Nancy Holtz, and Susie Olson; grandchildren David Grudem, Jerry (Jenni) Grudem, Kimberly Ellis, Jeff Grudem, Eric Hanson (Nikki Helland), Karen Hanson Bondi (Mark Bondi), Jen (Jake) Talarico, Sara (Mitchell) Nohrenberg, Jerry Olson; great-grandchildren Helena (Steven) Thate; Christine O'Hair, Ian Grudem, Justin and Jamie Grudem, Jerod, Jaylond and Javon Ellis, Willa and Thea Hanson, Keira, Siena, Conor and Taylor Bondi, Thomas, Ezra and Audrey Talarico, Samantha and Madison Nohrenberg; great-great-grandson Soren Thate; brother, Richard L. Roe, and many other relatives and dear friends. Lovingly known as Boppa to his grandchildren, he always enjoyed time spent with family. Audrey was the love of his life and he missed her dearly. Dave attended public schools in Minneapolis and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII between 1942 and 1946. Upon discharge from the Navy, he joined the Lathers Union and was elected Business Agent in 1952. He represented the Minneapolis and State Building and Construction Trades Councils, and also served as a District Vice President of the Minnesota AFL-CIO and Vice President of the Minneapolis Central Labor Union Council. He was active in the DFL, ran for mayor of Minneapolis in 1961, and was a delegate to all Democratic National Conventions from 1960 - 1984. Dave was elected President of the Minnesota AFL-CIO in 1966, and led the labor movement in successful efforts to secure collective bargaining rights for public sector workers, OSHA, tip credit, equal rights for women and enacting Minnesota's first minimum wage. He was always working to make life better for others. Following his retirement in 1984, he continued his work on behalf of labor, most notably as the driving force behind creation of a Workers Memorial Garden on the State Capitol grounds. Dave also served on the Board of Regents for the University of Minnesota for 12 years, retiring from the Board in 1993. He served on numerous boards and commissions over the years, including his recent term on the Minnesota Racing Commission. Dave was also very proud of his membership in the American Legion, Bearcat Post #504, and served as its Commander until his passing. Special thanks to the Allina Hospice team and the staff at St. Gertrude's TCU for the loving care provided. We are forever grateful for all the kindness shown during his recent stay. Private Interment Oak Hill Cemetery.

David married Audrey Helen HANSON on 17 Aug 1946 in Hennepin County, Minnesota. Audrey was born about 1925; died on 22 Oct 2016 in Minnesota; was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]