Rod Bellville

Rod Guy Bellville, of Minneapolis and the beautiful hills of Wisconsin, passed away on July 14, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Titus and Carol Bellville. He is survived by his son Luke (Jess); daughter Katey (Jon) O’Hern; grandchildren William and Molly O’Hern; siblings Bonny, Tara, John (Cindy) and Sally; and his dog, Annie.

Throughout his lifetime, Rod found happiness caring for his beloved hounds and labs, always having a canine companion nearby. He loved horses and riding, and passed that skill down to Luke and Katey. 

His farm at various times had rabbits, ducks, goats, cats, chickens, cows and calves, and even a pet Racoon named 'Woobie'. A gardener all of his life, he grew flowers and organic apples and vegetables he sold at farmers' markets. 

After attending Carleton College as a French major, Rod apprenticed at Dahl's Violin shop in Downtown Minneapolis. Later he was a partner at Bellville and Hoffman Luthiers, and owned the Bellville String Shop on the West Bank. He was an original member of the PowderMilk Biscuit Band on A Prairie Home Companion, and several other bands, primarily playing Bluegrass and Old Time Country Blues. Known for his guitar flatpicking, he also played fiddle, mandolin, and more. He often performed with his daughter Katey, starting when she was 5 years old at a pickle festival.

Rod's other passion was the natural world . He was a knowledgeable outdoorsman and knew the names and habits of the forbs, trees and grasses of our prairies and woodlands. He loved to read and retained much of what he read which made him an interesting partner in conversation on uncountable topics.

He also loved pastries, swing dancing, and yodeling. 

He will be missed.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, July 28th 12 PM (noon) - 4pm at The Snail Lake Regional Park Pavilion, 4191 Snail lake blvd, Shoreview MN 55126, (rain or shine, bring your instruments and a dish to share).