Rodney Robert Hood

Rodney Robert Hood (Bert or Gunny to his friends and acquaintances) formerly of Great Falls passed away of natural causes May 28, 2022, with loved ones at his side.

Bert was born October 28, 1950, in Great Falls, Montana to George and Angela (Carrier) Hood.  As a child he was a quiet kid who enjoyed reading and history.  A passion that carried into his adulthood.

After school and a few odd jobs, he joined the United States Marine Corps, of which he was very proud to serve his country.  He was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California, where he was a mechanic on the CH-46 Helicopter.

Bert was promoted to Sergeant and while serving he was awarded the Good Conduct medal, Meritorious Master, Rifle Expert and Pistol Marksmanship.  He attended Marine Corps Recruiter school and served as a recruiter in Tacoma, Washington.  When he chose to leave the Corps, he received an honorable discharge.  He stayed in Southern California awhile before returning to his hometown of Great Falls.

His passion for the arts and history brought him hours of enjoyment.  He visited the galleries, studios, and museums often and loved the history of Lewis and Clark, visiting the Interpretive Center as often as he could.  A day with him could take you on his favorite road trip to Ryan Falls.

His collection of history books and art gave him hours of pleasure. Ansel Adams photographs took him to many places.  He enjoyed collecting prints, pottery, books and sculptures, surrounding himself with the arts he loved.  He was a fan of Georgia O’Keefe and local artists Brian Morger and Monte Dolack.

Bert was a kind gentle soul who helped others less fortunate than himself and will be missed by many.

Those who preceded him in death include both his parents, George and Angela (Carrier) Hood; brother, Roger William Hood, who was a casualty of the Vietnam War; beloved niece, Roxan Schock.

He is survived by his brother, Ronald (Sandy) Hood; sisters, Barbara (Don) Baumgartner and Sharon (Jerry) Dirkson, as well as his loving nieces and nephews, Debra Clancy, Troy Dabney, Robin Earl, Ronald M. Hood, Roger Earl, Loren Buckeo, Jacob Newman and Keely Dirkson.

At his request, he chose to be cremated.  There will not be a service, but his family will lay him to rest with his brother, Roger in the Choteau Veterans Cemetery.

Semper Fi Sgt. Hood….Rest in Paradise. 

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