We are proud to honor the memory of Rhall E. Pope.  He was an inspiration in everything he did, from contributing to the design of the original Space Shuttle to diabetes research. Rhall will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his insight and his devotion to his wife and children.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed board member, Rhall E. Pope.  He died suddenly on August 31, 2008, while doing what he loved, running around Lake Harriet.  

Born on July 19, 1945 in Pittsburgh, Rhall graduated from Duquesne University and received his Doctorate in Aeronautical Engineering from Purdue. After contributing to the design of the original Space Shuttle, Rhall moved to Minneapolis in 1975, to continue his career with Honeywell. Over the years Rhall also worked at Rosemount Engineering and BF Goodrich Aerospace.  He began a new career at Smiths Medical in 1998, leading research and development in insulin delivery technology.

Of all his professional accomplishments, he was most proud of his contributions to diabetes research. He was a board member of Community Health Charities for ten years, four of which he served as Chairman. Rhall also served on the Board of Directors of the Minnesota Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Rhall was an avid runner, and completed over 30 marathons throughout the country. He enjoyed following whatever sports were in season, sailing and listening to Bob Dylan. A man of few words, Rhall will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his insight and his devotion to his wife and children. Rhall is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Kathy; daughter, Michaela (Paul) Henkelmann; son, Ted; sister, Lenore Pope; brother, Norman Pope; numerous nieces, nephews, other family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Catherine Pope. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Community Health Charities of MN or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Rhall made an outstanding impact on Community Health Charities, not just as a volunteer but as an inspiration.  We are honored to share the thoughts of those who knew him.

A note From: LuAnn Heinen  - National Business Group on Health

I think of Rhall as steadfast, kind, a person of his word, honorable, reliable and just. He obviously brought great discipline and diligence to all he did, and he worked very hard for Community Health Charities -- without ego or need for personal recognition -- to advance a cause he believed in. Rhall's leadership style was quietly effective and taught us again why the tortoise always prevails. He was a marathoner who finished his races. He did not judge others; instead, he provided a sterling example. After each marathon, I enjoyed looking in the paper for Rhall's race time because I found comfort in his steady, annual pursuit of something beyond the reach of most of us. While his loss is grievous, I feel certain Rhall left his life, family and relationships in a state of no regrets. In this, he teaches still.

A note from:  Linda Ireland - Aveus, LLC 

Rhall was a quiet leader.  A listener.  Insightful.  A friend.  He made all of us a better organization by being part of us, and I know I am a better board member and volunteer for having served with him.  

A note from:  Ed O’Connor - Octane Fitness

I had the pleasure of serving with Rhall on the board of Community Health Charities for nine years.  He is the epitome of integrity - he always did what he said he would do.  We could always count on Rhall.  His commitment to the organization was remarkable.  Rhall didn't just talk about the good work of CHC, he actively participated in its mission.  He was highly respected by absolutely everyone with whom he served.