Continuing a Legacy: Rock Marquardt Appointed to BCMH Board of Directors
Bates County Memorial Hospital (BCMH) is pleased to announce that Rock Marquardt has joined the hospital’s Board of Directors. Appointed by the Bates County Commissioners, Rock will fill the seat previously held by the late Mike Taranto, who passed away in October 2024 after serving on the board since 2016. Rock’s appointment ensures that the Board remains composed of strong, experienced leaders committed to BCMH’s mission and its critical role in serving the community.
“On behalf of the entire team, I am delighted to welcome Rock to the Hospital Board of Trustees,” said Greg Weaver, Chief Executive Officer for BCMH. “His passion for healthcare will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission of providing exceptional care to our communities. We look forward to Rock’s insights, collaboration, and leadership as we work together to create a brighter future for our patients and staff.”
A lifelong resident of Bates County, Rock grew up in Papinville and Rich Hill, Missouri, and now resides in Rockville. After graduating from Bryant High School in 1975, he pursued a degree from the University of Missouri, where he set the foundation for a successful career in agriculture. Over the past 40 years, Rock has built a deep knowledge base in the grain trade business, with experience at Cargill, Inc. and JP Morgan. Most recently, he retired in March 2024 after seven years working with West Central AgriServices. He now runs Marquardt Brothers Farms, LLC alongside his brother Zack, continuing the family’s third-generation legacy in pecan and crop farming.
In his interview, Rock shared his deep gratitude for the care provided by BCMH and its staff.
He reflected, “In the past 18 months, my brother and I have lost both parents. The care and level of service provided by BCMH staff demonstrated top level service. Growing up in Bates County, you hope you never need the hospital, but we all will at some point in our lives. We are grateful for its presence when we need the care.”
Having lived in larger cities, Rock also has firsthand experience of the challenges faced in big urban emergency rooms and appreciates the high level of care BCMH provides in Bates County.
Rock’s dedication to the community is a central part of his life. His grandfather, Fred Marquardt, was a founding board member of the hospital, appointed by the Bates County Court in 1957. He served on the BCMH Board for 27 years, and Rock is eager to continue that legacy by maintaining open communication with the citizens of Bates County. He believes that a strong hospital is vital to the future of the county and that the community must prioritize making BCMH a relevant, sustainable institution for generations to come. Reflecting on his own experiences, Rock has learned that staying relevant is key to ensuring long-term success, both in business and in healthcare.
Rock’s grandfather, Fred Marquardt (back row, left), was one of five appointed in 1957 to serve on the original Board of Trustees for Bates County Memorial Hospital, which was then in the planning stages.
As a new board member, Rock brings a wealth of expertise in risk management and business strategy. He understands that rural hospitals like BCMH face unique challenges, including the constant risk of consolidation. He is committed to ensuring that BCMH remains a relevant and indispensable part of the community, helping secure its future in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
Rock’s dedication to the values of hard work and integrity are grounded in the lessons passed down from his grandfather. He firmly believes that success begins with doing the best job possible in every task, no matter how small, and he aims to apply this same work ethic to his service on the board. His perspective and commitment to his community will no doubt make a positive impact as he steps into this important role.
We look forward to the contributions Rock will make during his time on the Board of Directors, and we are confident that his leadership will further strengthen our hospital’s mission to provide high-quality healthcare to Bates County and the surrounding areas.
BCMH invites the community to join us in welcoming Rock to our Board of Directors.
