Tim Dodge '70 honored at wrestling reunion/dedication
In late October, 90 friends and family members celebrated the late Tim "Dodger" Dodge '70 at a wrestling reunion and dedication of the Tim Dodge Wrestling Mezzanine. The mezzanine overlooks Augustana’s wrestling facility in the Carver Center.
Dodge was a four-year Augustana wrestling letterwinner with a 90-19 career record. He was a two-time All-American and undefeated at home his entire career as a Viking. Soon after graduation, he served Augustana as the head wrestling coach for three years and director of financial aid and admissions for 18 years. He was a highly respected ISHA wrestling official for 25 years.
"Tim Dodge made a difference in so many lives, in so many ways, as an athlete and an Augie leader," said Dan Martin '81. "When people heard about the idea to honor him, they responded enthusiastically, and all had a story about how Dodger helped them! He made us all better, and sharper."
"Tim Dodge made a difference in so many lives, in so many ways, as an athlete and an Augie leader."
The list of those responsible for organizing the event is long, including John Murabito '80, who first talked with Terry McCarter '80 about an opportunity to honor Dodge, who passed away in 2020. McCarter then contacted Tony Willaert, Augustana’s head wrestling coach; President of the College Andrea Talentino; and Augustana’s Office of Alumni Engagement.
"Everyone was very supportive and liked the idea to honor Tim," McCarter said. "After I could see that the event was a go, I called my friend Dan Martin to co-chair, and we started working with Cherie Dodge to build the event."
In addition to McCarter, Martin and Willaert, others including Pete Campbell '70, Dave Markward '71 and John Malvik '71 offered reflections on Dodge's life during the dinner program. Gordy Smith '79 gave the blessing. Dodge's wife, Cherie Henderson '82 Dodge, made closing remarks.
"Tim was solely responsible for finding creative ways to make it possible for students to afford to start and stay at Augustana," McCarter said. "I stayed in fairly close contact with Tim for the remainder of his life. Fabulous person! Dan and I were honored to play a part in honoring his life.
"The reunion with old friends and teammates was a huge bonus. Everything we planned was worthy of honoring our friend Tim."