Dennis Friestad

We were in college together and had some great times! Always enjoyed his sense of humor. A great athlete who went on to become a great teacher and coach. He will be missed by many!! Dennis Gillund

Sincere sympathies to the family of Dennis Friestad.
Sincerely,
Sherri Westby

Many will understandably remember Dennis for his outstanding coaching skills, but I will remember him for his teaching talents. Anyone who could help me understand freshman algebra was deserving of a national teaching award! My father (VCHS Supt.) considered Dennis one of the shining stars of the faculty. My sincere condolences to the Friestad family.

I worked with Dennis at Valley City High School from 1975-1980, and I could not have had a better mentor and friend as a young teacher and coach. Dennis was a dedicated teacher, hardworking and always trying new methods ways to engage his students. Inventive and naturally creative, he was especially gifted at teaching science. A history teacher assigned to teach physical science for one year, I would never have made it through without Dennis’ ideas and daily encouragement. As a coach, he...

I am sorry for your loss. Dennis and I were college friends. Great sense of humor and always positive! Dennis gillund

As a skinny undersized kid I went out for football every year and was the worst player on the team. I remember as a freshman playing in a game and Mr Friestad put me in at middle linebacker. I thought he was crazy but he encouraged me and pushed me out on the field. I made a couple solo tackles and missed an easy interception. We lost the game and after the game in the locker room he came in and praised us. He singled me out and praised me in front of the whole team. It was the only time a...

I was saddened to learn of Dennis’ passing. I taught and coached at VCHS from 1969 to 1974, and had great admiration for his relationship with the Hiliner students and athletes. His work ethic seamlessly passed to the kids he worked with, and the results were always positive. My thoughts and prayers are extended to the family. May Dennis RIP!
Brian Griffin, Battle Lake, MN

Dennis was a mentor and one heck of a competitor and coach. He wrestled with kids he coached and held his own during his middle ages. He almost died on the mat!!! Never quit. He entered an old timers wrestling tournament and Jamestown and went overtime with young plumber from Napoleon. I actually forget the outcome but Dennis had no reason to hang in there that long. He had no quit in him. When he couldn't attend the state wrestling tournament anymore I think that really hurt...Dennis, Mr....