Earl Bakken passed away on Sunday, October 22. Earl passed at the age of 94 in his home on the Big Island of Hawaii. When Earl Bakken was eight years old he saw the movie Frankenstein at the Heights Theater in Columbia Heights. Earl was fascinated and inspired by the idea that there might be a connection between invention and life. His interest guided him to receive training in electrical engineering at the University of Minnesota. He would eventually go on to co-found Medtronic and The Bakken Museum. From saving individual lives to encouraging health innovation, the impact of Earl Bakken’s life is endless. We at The Bakken Museum proud to uphold his legacy and share his passion for invention with youth and adults alike.