David Allen Shodean

Shodean, David Allen
David A. Shodean, age 81, left this world for a better place early in the morning of March 3, 2016 surrounded by family at his Rio Rancho home. He fought a brave battle with lung disease that gradually restricted his life for several years. He will be dearly missed by his large extended family, former customers and Community of Joy Lutheran Church where he was a founding member and active in many of its ministries especially his contribution as its photographic historian. Born on the home farm on August 2, 1934 in Audubon, MN, Dave is survived by his wife of almost 20 years, Pat Johnson-Shodean; two sons: Jeffrey Shodean (wife Pamela) of Cleveland, MN, Jonathan Shodean (wife Shaila) of Rio Rancho, NM; daughter Karen Shodean (partner Richard Hauter) of Albuquerque, NM; stepsons Kyle Johnson (wife Zelina) of Downers Grove, IL; Derek Johnson (wife Wendy) of Naperville, IL; and stepdaughter Erin Johnson-Kruft (husband George) of Rio Rancho, NM; granddaughter Karissa Shodean of LeCenter, MN; step grandson Jason Kellen (wife Shannon) of Burnsville, MN and many local and distant grandchildren and great grandchildren. David was predeceased by his loving daughter Major Lisa Shodean. Surviving siblings are Wallace Shodean of Audubon, MN and Barbara Olson of St. Croix Falls, WI. David served 3 years in the US Army ASA stationed in Hawaii. He was a graduate of the University of Minnesota and taught for many years in Atwater and Willmar, MN. Agriculture was his passion and he was pleased to have had many reunions with the “aggie boys” from Ridgewater College (formerly Willmar Community College). In addition he operated a tree and sod farm, hydroponic vegetable business and raised thousands of chickens. After retirement he moved to Rio Rancho, NM and pursued a self-owned Best Blinds Direct window covering business. He enjoyed travel, photography and trying to get many things to grow in New Mexico, winning a couple of blue ribbons for his watermelons at the New Mexico State Fair. As a patriot he was proud of his large American flag in the back yard. His photos were an integral part of his church contribution capturing members, occasions and cherished memories throughout his years as a devoted Lutheran. He especially valued his Scandinavian heritage and savored the opportunity to visit his family’s homeland. Everyone who knew David recognized he was a true servant of the Lord and a lover of the Bible. He called himself the “blind man that could see” and often invited his customers to attend his beloved church. He is remembered as a faithful man with a generous heart, a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. A Visitation will be held Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services, 2400 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, March 14, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. at Community of Joy Lutheran Church, 841 Saratoga Dr. NE, Rio Rancho, NM. Interment will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Donations to Community of Joy Lutheran Church Building Fund may be made in David’s name at 841 Saratoga Dr., NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144.  
Daniels Family Funeral Services
2400 Southern Blvd
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-891-9192