Eric John Rosendahl

Eric J. Rosendahl

Eric J. Rosendahl, affectionately known to many as "Rosie," passed away unexpectedly on June 30, 2026, in Woodbury, Minnesota, at the age of 79.

Eric was born on October 23, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Frederick and Melva (Harmer) Rosendahl. He grew up with a deep love for his home state-a love that remained with him throughout his life. Whether cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, the Minnesota Wild, the Minnesota Twins, or the Golden Gophers, Eric proudly wore purple and gold and was always a loyal Minnesota sports fan.

A gifted natural athlete, Eric excelled in football at Edina High School and enjoyed playing hockey during Minnesota winters. He later shared his love of skiing with his children, tackling the mogul runs at Buck Hill during school ski trips and creating lasting family memories.

After high school, Eric answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He trained as a combat medic, graduating at the top of his class, before serving in Vietnam. His experience caring for fellow soldiers inspired a lifelong commitment to healing others, a calling he faithfully pursued throughout his career as a physician assistant.

After attending Arizona State University and the University of Minnesota, Eric embarked on a remarkable 38-year career with Group Health as a physician assistant. Throughout his career, he compassionately cared for countless patients while assisting in numerous surgical procedures. His knowledge, steady hands, and commitment to medicine earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of those whose lives he touched.

Outside of work, Eric embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved music and could often be found enjoying the sounds of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, The Eagles, The Rolling Stones, and many other classic rock favorites. He enjoyed attending concerts, traveling to sunny destinations, relaxing on warm sandy beaches with friends and always having a cold margarita in hand.

Above all, Eric cherished the people in his life. He was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Rosendahl; his mother, Melva (Harmer) Rosendahl; his stepmother, Mary (Tolkien) Rosendahl; his brother, Paul Rosendahl; and his beloved daughter, Jillian (Rosendahl) Johnson.

He is lovingly remembered by his brother, Alan (Phyllis) Rosendahl; his stepsister, Charlaine Tolkien (Karen Hawley); his son, Jason (Katie) Rosendahl; his daughters, Jessica Miller and Johanna Lennox (Jamie Zernicke); his eleven cherished grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his special friend, Patti "Patty Jo" Johansen-Strain; and extended family, dear friends, former colleagues, and patients whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Eric will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to caring for others, his love of family, his adventurous spirit, his deep Minnesota pride, and his warm sense of humor. Whether he was cheering on his favorite teams, enjoying great music while wearing his favorite tie-dyed shirts, taking the top off his beloved Jeep for a drive, traveling with loved ones, or simply sharing stories, he lived a life filled with purpose, compassion, and joy.

A devoted father, grandfather, uncle, veteran, healer, and friend, Eric's legacy of service, compassion, and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Eric's life on August 23, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Cadia of Woodbury, 4644 Oak Point Lane, Woodbury, MN 55129. We welcome all who knew and loved Eric to join us in sharing memories and celebrating a life well lived.

"Carry On," Dad.