Rodney Ralph Hadland

In Loving Memory of Rodney Hadland

Rod Hadland passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, in San Tan Valley, Arizona, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Lawrence and Joyce Hadland, and lived there for 60 years. While our hearts weigh heavy because he will be deeply missed, they also hold immense gratitude for the remarkable man we were blessed to know and love.

Rod lived an abundant life of many roles, masteries, and titles. And behind all of them, was a man of distinguished character. He possessed a calm, steady presence that drew others in like a magnetic force, bringing everyone from his children to his neighbors seeking his guidance in all matters of life. He was committed in his principles, dignified in his presentation, and displayed kindness when it mattered most. Not for recognition, but because it was in his nature.

Early on, Rod mastered many skills, including drawing, trapshooting, and taxidermy, before he found his true passion, building. With methodical craftsmanship, vast knowledge, and a tireless work ethic, he transformed physical spaces into stunning feats of practicality and beauty, always designing from the canvas of his mind. At heart, he was an artist with an endless creative pursuit. Furthermore, he always used his talents to help others. Over the decades, he built countless homes and renovations; places for the people he loved to relax, make memories, and take pride in their homes.

One of the great honors of Rod’s life was being part of the brotherhood of the Grand Forks Fire Department. Rising to the rank of Battalion Chief, he became, as his dear friend and Fire Chief Peter O'Neil put it, an “absolute leader of men.” He had a calming way that put others at ease, whether they were discussing the challenges of life around the fire hall television or breaching a blazing building. Rod understood how long they had until a burning structure became unstable, and other firefighters said they felt safer knowing he was on their shift. He instilled confidence through his expertise, his deliberate nature, and his commitment to their safety. In his 26 years of service to the community, Rod helped save many lives. In talking with him, you would never have known. With quiet integrity, he bore the weight of profound responsibility.

In his later years, Rod, together with his wife, Deb, and niece, Kristin, fostered a close-knit community with the Johnson Ranch Golf Mixer. While golf was certainly a passion of Rod’s, he was most fulfilled by helping to create a sense of belonging and community within Johnson Ranch. Through his clever games and leadership, it was simply about having a damn good time.

Rod embodied the joy in mischief and the glee of shared laughter. Notoriously, he left people wondering whether he was telling the truth or crafting a clever tale that would inevitably prove to be a joke. Humor, for him, was a language of love. A way to brighten another’s day. Even in his final months, he often drew laughter because he didn’t like to see anyone sad or grieving. In his mind, making someone smile was one of the last gifts he could give.

Above all else, the role Rod treasured most was being at the center of a family that loved him dearly. He often said his children are his greatest legacy. Rod also said his most meaningful moments were those spent with family. Through hugs, advice, wisdom, and dutiful acts of service, he loved and gave himself entirely to his family without ever expecting anything in return.

Rod will be lovingly remembered as a hero, husband, father, brother, artist, builder, leader, and friend. When Rod’s children asked him what someone should do when they miss him, he said, “Remember the happy moments together, think of the good times, or go hit a round of golf.”

Rod shaped the world into a more beautiful image, with every home he built, every person he loved, and the extraordinary life he led. The world is less today.

Rod is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Deborah, children Jeff (Mindy) Carlson, Stacey Hadland, Stefanie (Rick) Kostewa, Benjamin (Jessica Eidsvaag) Sieber, Dean (Alana) Hadland, sister Sandra Heffern, brother Larry (Elaine) Hadland, nephews Marc (Julie) Heffern, Kurt (Shannon) Heffern, niece Kristin Heffern, nephew Chris (Jamie) Hadland, niece Kelly (Matt) Betker, nephews Job (Jason Campbell) Christenson, Aaron Medley, nieces Jane (Tom) Nastick, Emily (Mike) Calderin, Rachel (Cory Lundeen) Medley, cousin Dale Hansen, along with many other cousins, great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held in the fall.