Donald Elmer Evenson, 89, of rural Coleharbor, passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024, after being diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Garrison, ND. Burial to follow at St. Nicholas Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 2:30-4:30 PM on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Garrison, the rosary will begin at 4:30 PM.
Donald was born on June 3, 1935, on the family farm, the second son of Elmer and Caroline (Stumvoll) Evenson. He joined his older brother Floyd, and later his sister Bernice (Schlichting) to complete the family. Their father, Elmer, passed away suddenly at the age of 46 in 1954. After his father’s passing, Donald and Floyd worked together for many years, not only farming but also at the Evenson Brothers Welding and Manufacturing Shop. Donald continued farming the land with his son Larry and eventually assisted his grandson Eric making the farmstead a proud five generation operation.
October 20, 1956, Donald and Gladys (Mitchell) were married at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Garrison. Together, they made their home on the family farm and raised their children, Cindy and Larry. They had a wonderful life, not only working together on farming activities but dancing, cooking and traveling to visit relatives. They both loved music, Donald with his accordion and Gladys on the piano. Gladys passed away due to complications of ALS February 15, 2011. Donald cared for her in their home until her death. They had 55 beautiful years together.
Donald’s main hobby was work, but he did have a passion for flying. He purchased his first airplane in 1952. He owned several planes throughout his life.
He began attending Malcom Township meetings in 1971 and was elected township assessor in 1974. He became supervisor in 1982 and served 50 years on the township board, retiring in April of this year.
Donald farmed much of the land surrounding Lake Audubon and later developed a recreational area known as North View Estates.
He never met a stranger and was always curious about people and their lives. He took great joy in hearing about his grandchildren’s ambitions and dreams, always ready and willing to offer advice and encouragement. He often remarked what a great life he had and wouldn’t change a thing.
In his later years, Donald shared his life with his companion, Lu Graeber. They enjoyed each others company, visiting, dancing, and winters in Arizona. A special thank you to Lu for her care and companionship, especially during these last few months.
Donald was deeply grateful to all friends and relatives who came to visit. Reminiscing of days gone by brought him much happiness.
A special thank you also to CHI St. Alexius Hospice caregivers, Amanda, Crystal, and Maddie, for their compassionate care.
Grateful to have shared in his life are his daughter, Cindy (Larry) LaBere, Bismarck; son, Larry (Tammy) Evenson, Coleharbor; grandchildren, Ryan (Tabetha) LaBere, Brent (Kelsey) LaBere, Jared (Taylor) LaBere, Megan (Brian) Fettig, all of Bismarck, and Eric (DelRae) Evenson, of Coleharbor; and his great-grandchildren, Presley Fettig, Amelia and Henrik LaBere, Adeline and Nash LaBere, and AJ Evenson; sister, Bernice (George) Schlichting.
Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys; son, Larry; parents, Elmer and Caroline; brother, Floyd; and many relatives and friends.
No Goodbyes – just see you on the other side.
“Well done, my good and faithful servant”
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