Mike Hedlund

Mike was born in Elgin, Ill., and moved to Bemidji where he was an Eagle Scout and athlete, graduating high school in 1969. He attended Bemidji State University for a time, and later worked for 20 years as a stone mason. Mike played drums for Podipto after John Calder left the band for Vietnam, and before Steve Rundquist joined in 1970; and again between Steve and Chet Ellingson. When not drumming, Mike traveled with the band throughout their career, and could often be found running the soundboard at shows. He was a great friend to the band. Mike died on Jan. 16, 1993, at the age of 41. He was cremated with his drums sticks.