George F. Rodden: A Harmonious Blend of Business Acumen and Musical Passion

George F. Rodden, born on September 16, 1916, in San Francisco, California, was an inspiring individual known for his dual career as an American business executive with Ford Marketing and a weekend conductor of youth symphonies. His life was a remarkable journey marked not only by his professional achievements and familial legacy but also by the unique insights offered by his Human Design.

Early Life and Family Legacy

George hailed from a family with a deep-rooted history in California. His mother was a schoolteacher, and his father, a dentist, added to the family’s noteworthy lineage. George’s grandfather was the first Superior Court Judge in California, a pioneering settler in the state. Growing up in Marin County, George and his younger sister experienced the simple pleasures of life, such as riding the ferry to San Francisco before the iconic Golden Gate Bridge was constructed. At the young age of 16, George contributed to the bridge’s construction, marking the beginning of his industrious spirit.

Human Design: A Generator with the Right Angle Cross of Eden

According to his Human Design, George was a Generator with a Sacral Inner Authority and a 1/3 Profile. His Strategy was “To Respond,” which he effectively applied throughout his life, particularly in his musical endeavors and business career. The Incarnation Cross of Eden (6/36 | 12/11) highlighted his ability to create harmony and beauty in his environment, a trait evident in both his personal and professional life.

Key Human Design Channels

• Channel 11-56: Known as the Channel of Curiosity, this channel fueled George’s lifelong interest in various subjects, including UFOs and psychic phenomena, leading to his embrace of Agni Yoga.
• Channel 3-60: The Channel of Mutation, which signifies transformation and innovation, was apparent in how George transformed the youth symphony landscape and adapted to new roles throughout his career.

Education and Early Career

Tragedy struck when George’s father passed away on March 9, 1934, due to a stroke. This event curtailed George’s formal education to just one year of junior college, forcing him to take on several menial jobs. His path took a pivotal turn when he entered the army on November 2, 1942, during World War II. There, he honed his skills in aircraft mechanics and served as an engineer crewman until his discharge on January 31, 1946.

Business Career

Post-war, George began working for Slick Airways at San Francisco Airport. It was during this time that he met Lois Fast at the airport coffee shop, leading to their marriage on February 13, 1949. George’s career trajectory in the automotive industry saw him work at Palo Alto Nash Auto and later transition into sales with Dodge in 1952. His expertise in the automotive field culminated in a significant role with Ford Marketing as a service representative in 1964.

Musical Passion and Leadership

George’s musical journey began in his youth as a cellist and pianist. He conducted choral groups and later took the lead with the Meremblum Youth Symphonies, performing as a guest conductor at prestigious venues like the Los Angeles Music Center and the Hollywood Bowl. His Human Design Strategy “To Respond” was evident in how he embraced opportunities to nurture young talent.

In 1964, George was offered the chance to form the Pioneer Orchestra, a stepping stone for budding musicians aiming to join the Meremblum or California Youth Symphony. His role in these orchestras was a testament to his Incarnation Cross of Eden, creating a harmonious environment for young musicians to flourish.

Personal Life and Interests

George and his first wife, Lois, shared a deep interest in UFOs and psychic phenomena, which evolved into a commitment to Agni Yoga after meeting guru Ralph Houston in 1955. This interest in living ethics permeated his life, leading weekly discussion groups on the subject.

In 1977, George married pianist Ann Jobe, blending two families with a remarkable degree of harmony, a feat aligned with his Right Angle Cross of Eden. His family life was characterized by his role as a father to nine children, despite the challenges of being away due to his work commitments.

Later Years and Legacy

Upon retiring to Northern California with Ann in 1986, George continued to conduct with the All Season Orchestra, uniting musicians of all ages in their shared passion for music. His later years were marked by health challenges, including glaucoma, diabetes, and a hip replacement, but his spirit remained resilient.

George’s legacy as a conductor and business executive was deeply felt by the countless young musicians he mentored and the children who knew him as a father. His life’s work, influenced by his Human Design as a Generator, continues to inspire those who knew him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is George F. Rodden’s Human Design type?

George F. Rodden was a Generator, known for his responsive and stable energy, which he utilized effectively in both his business and musical careers.

How did George’s Human Design influence his career?

His Sacral Inner Authority and the Right Angle Cross of Eden influenced his ability to create harmony in youth orchestras and adapt to various roles in his business career.

What were George’s notable achievements in music?

He led the Meremblum Youth Symphonies and formed the Pioneer Orchestra, providing a nurturing environment for young musicians to advance to prestigious symphonies.

How did George balance his interests in business and music?

George balanced his dual careers through his weekend conducting engagements alongside his role with Ford Marketing, responding to opportunities as guided by his Human Design Strategy.

What is the significance of the channels in George’s Human Design?

The channels 11-56 and 3-60 in his design highlight his curiosity and transformative ability, which were central to his lifelong learning and innovation in music education.