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Medtronic

Founded in 1949 by Earl E. Bakken and Palmer J. Hermundslie. Today it is one of the leading producers of medical device technology. Learn more about the history of this company by visiting the Medtronic website.

[Medtronic, Cardiac Pacemakers]
Anthony J. AdducciAnthony J. Adducci
Joined the staff at Medtronic in the 1960s. In the early 1970s, he helped found Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
[Medtronic]
Earl BakkenEarl Bakken
Started Medtronic and has developed many medical devices including the first battery operated pacemaker and the first implantable pacemaker. Founded the Bakken Library and Museum.
[Medtronic, Dann Company, Medical Alley]
Norman DannNorman Dann
As an entrepreneur, Dann has headed his own medical device design and servicing companies, one of which, the Dann Company, was acquired by Medtronic.
[Medtronic]
Thomas E. HolloranThomas E. Holloran
Served as Medtronic’s legal representative, a board member, and as a company executive. He now teaches at a Minnesota university.
[Medtronic, St. Jude, Cardiac Pacemakers]
Manuel VillafañaManuel Villafaña
A former sales manager for Medtronic, Villafaña went on to start several medical device companies.
[Medtronic]
Winston R. WallinWinston R. Wallin
Board member and a former chief executive of Medtronic.
Organizations Represented
Businesses Trade Associations Educational Institution

Video Interview
Dr. C. Walton Lillehei describes his first meeting with Medtronic founder Earl Bakken.