Rodney Joyal

Rodney Myles Joyal, aged 79, passed away at his home on January 27, 2025. He was born on February 3, 1945, in Waltham, Massachusetts, to Roy and Iola (Olson) Joyal. A graduate of Lee High in Midland, Texas, in 1963, Rod also earned his Teaching Degree from Mankato State University, Mankato.

On September 3, 1966, he married the love of his life, Ginny Hassing, at Lutheran Campus Chapel in Mankato, Minnesota. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter.

Rod was a dedicated educator, beginning his career at Jean McNair School in Winnebago, Illinois. He and Ginny returned to Mankato, where Rod continued his career in the Mankato School District and eventually took on the role of Principal at Mapleton-Amboy-Good Thunder schools. He concluded his educational journey as Principal at Gage and Holmes Elementary Schools in Rochester.

Rod is survived by his son Todd (Sara) Joyal of North Mankato and daughter Melissa (Jon) Haselhorst of Plymouth, Minnesota. He was a proud grandfather to Andrew Joyal, Danielle (Joyal) & Grayson Gavin, Alexis Joyal, Parker Haselhorst, and Lilli Haselhorst.

Rod was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ginny, his brother, Steve and his parents. He will be laid to rest beside his wife at Woodland Hills Cemetery in Mankato.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life at Rod’s favorite trivia location, Buffalo Wild Wings, Mankato. Rod (Badboy) proudly holds the highest Buzztime score in the state. Come share your memories and reminisce with us on March 1st from 2-4 pm in the back room.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Oak Terrace Assisted Living for their compassionate care of Rod during his time there.