Bradley James Dahlgren, 30, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, surrounded by family in New Zealand after a brief, yet heroic, fight against a Grade IV Glioblastoma.

Born April 27, 1988, in Rochester, Minnesota, he was the second of two children to Scott and Wanda Dahlgren. He graduated from Mayo High School in 2006 and received a bachelor of arts from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities in 2013.

Brad was a bright ray of light. His easy-going and optimistic spirit immediately drew you in. Engaging conversations with strangers would often result in meaningful friendships. You could always count on him for a great chat, big bear hug and warm smile. Wanderlust led him all over the world. As a PADI certified dive master, he frequently swam with his favorite animal, the sea turtle, and scuba dived in the most beautiful places on the planet, including Tenerife, Raja Ampat, Vanuatu and more. Brad loved poker, yoga, playing Battlefield with his big brother and receiving endless snuggles from his niece and nephew.

Bradley is survived by his mother, Wanda Dahlgren of Rochester; father, Scott Dahlgren (Diane) of Rochester; brother, Michael Dahlgren (Angela) of Farmington, Minnesota; grandmother, Murial Steberg of Zumbrota, Minnesota; several aunts and uncles; numerous cousins; niece, Anna; and nephew, Jason. He was preceded in death by three grandparents.

The family would like to thank Brad’s friends, Dean, Ann and Keio, for their support in caring for Brad until family arrived in New Zealand. They would also like to thank the staff at Auckland City Hospital for their hard work and special care. Finally, they are so touched by every heartfelt message sent by those around the globe who knew Brad. Thank you for loving him and sharing your stories.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 810 Third Ave. SE, Rochester, MN 55904, with the Rev. Anjanette Bandel officiating. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 28, 2018, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN 55901, and for one hour before the service on Saturday at the church. Memorials are preferred to the Shannon O’Hara Foundation: www.shannonoharafoundation.org/to-donate.html. Online condolences are welcome at www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.