Jessica "Jody" Bangert

Jessica "Jody" Bangert, 63, of Rochester, MN, received her wings and went to walk with the angels on August 11, 2023 surrounded by her family. She was born November 1, 1959 in Albert Lea, Minnesota.
Jody meant so much to so many people. When she smiled, she really meant it and if that smile was for you, it would light up your soul. She cared for the people in her life with her whole heart, making each and every one of us feel loved and safe in her care. When Jody hugged you, she hugged you, letting you know that she was happy to see you and you were important to her. When she laughed it was with so much joy and energy that you couldn't help yourself from joining in with her, even if you had missed what happened and had no clue what was so funny. Jody handled life with a sense of calmness and determination, giving her all to assure a positive outcome to anything she was involved in. Everyone Jody met was important to her, whether at work or at play. When you interacted with Jody you knew she accepted you for who you are, providing you with a nonjudgmental environment to get to know each other and work through whatever type of situation you were in. Jody's "I Love You" was always from her heart. Nothing meant more to her than her family and friends. Whether at home, at play or at work, Jody's time spent with us all was what made her happiest. Our hands were always able to find each other's hand. Love, strength and peace flowed between us simply by holding hands. So, hold your loved one's hand, give hugs for no reason and never be afraid to say, "I Love You."
Jody attended Albert Lea High School where she was a track star, played hockey, and was a multi-sport cheerleader. She attended St. Mary's University in Winona, MN and Austin Community College where she studied criminal justice.
Jody was the ultimate sports mom. She made the signs, cut the oranges, packed endless snacks and lunches, washed countless jerseys, and woke up at all hours to drive miles and miles to tournaments. You would recognize her whistle from across the fields. She truly did it all and wouldn't have traded that busy color-coded calendar for the world.
She worked for the Rochester Public Schools for over 20 years. She held multiple positions: Records & Registration, office manager at John Marshall High School, Student Support Services and worked as a Human Resources Health and Leave of Absence Specialist. She also held a part-time job, her "fun money" with Canadian Honker Hospitality for over 20 years.
After her diagnosis, she was determined to not let it get her down. Her positivity was indescribable, noticed by the doctors, nurses and everyone around her. She could have wallowed in her sadness, but she chose to rise above, and she was determined to live her best life for as long as she could. A special thank you to the Mayo Clinic doctors and nurses of the Oncology team, the St. Marys Emergency Room and the Office of Decedent Affairs for the care they provided not only to Jody but her entire family during this journey.
Jody was a truly wonderful person whose impact will be forever felt by all of those she touched. She was kind and selfless, her passing has left an unfillable gap in the hearts of loved ones.
She is survived by her husband Tim Bangert; children Adam and April Bangert; two grandchildren, Braylen Bangert and Bryn Lowery all of Rochester, MN; her mother Jo Jimenez, Rochester, MN; sisters Jackie (John) Abrego of Albert Lea and Julie Jimenez Coles (Kevin) of Rochester; brother Jeff Jimenez of Albert Lea; nephews Jason and Jacob Abrego, nieces Jalen (Jimenez) Arnold, Riley Jimenez, Quincy Jimenez and Josie Jimenez; brother-in-law Rick Bangert; sisters-in-law Becky, Julie and Andrea (Alan); nephews Chris & Mike Ross, Phil & Eric Bangert, Nathan Hackensack, David & Tyler Miller and Corey Puterbaugh; nieces Laura (Ross) Norris, Stephanie Ross, Rebecca (Miller) Kittelson and Jordan Puterbaugh; her lifelong best friend since 3rd Grade, Cherie Seuser, Albert Lea, MN; Travel Buddies/Besties, Deb McClain and Kris Pieters, special cousins Angie Stadheim, Lorie Calarco (Dave) and many, many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Jesse Jimenez, godparents David and Karen Talamantez; mother-in-law Peggy Bangert; father-in-law Melvin Bangert, great nephews Mason Abrego and Josiah Miller.
Memorial Gathering
Saturday, August 26, 2023
4pm-7pm
Macken Funeral Home
1105 12th St SE
Rochester, MN 55904
Celebration of Life
Sunday, August 27, 2023
1pm-5pm, Program at 1:30pm
International Event Center
7333 Airport Dr SW
Rochester, MN 55902