Dean W Bakke

Dean W. Bakke, a man who could truly make something out of nothing, passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 63, from pancreatic cancer. Though his hands were rarely still and his talents were many, his greatest masterpiece was the family he built and the grandchildren he adored.

Born on May 2, 1962, in Mayville, ND, to Raymond and Beverly Bakke, Dean grew up and attended high school in May-Port, where he wrestled and was a state champion in 1980. This sparked a lifelong passion for competition and discipline. Dean went on to coach and mentor many young wrestlers in the Carrington, North Dakota’s wrestling program.

In 1985, Dean married Janell Eng, the mother of his children. Together, they raised three children. While he was a man of many skills, his favorite "job" was being a grandfather.

Dean was a "jack of all trades" in the truest sense. He loved to collect recipes and cookbooks but never followed one of them. He created his own, and they were always better. He possessed the rare gift of being naturally gifted at whatever he attempted. Whether he was fixing an engine, solving a problem, or creating something from scratch, Dean’s ingenuity was unmatched. He used these skills both personally and professionally as he was a valued employee at Dakota Growers Pasta Company for over 30 years. Dean saw potential where others saw scrap, and he lived his life with a quiet confidence in his ability to provide and build.

Dean’s world revolved around his four red-headed granddaughters: Elsie, Ovedia, Laurel, and Maeve. He found his greatest joy in connecting with them, teaching them about the "cool things in life," and sharing his love of weird songs. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new grandson, Baby Bakke, who will grow up hearing stories of his grandfather’s strength and creativity.

He is survived by his children: Aubrie (Nick) Ziegler, Mitchel (Alli) Bakke, and Joseph (Maddy) Bakke; his four beloved granddaughters, and grandson on the way; Siblings Terry Bakke and Wendy Bakke, Tammy (Bob) Moen, Curt Bakke and Gayle Benson, Debbie (Dave) Munro, many nieces and nephews, along with his many friends and family members who will miss his steady presence, handiwork, and remarkable spirit.

In honor of Dean’s lifelong love for the sport of wrestling and the care he received in his final days, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to: The Carrington Wrestling Club Attn: Dennis Freeman 525 4th St N, Carrington, ND 58421 or HIA Hospice.

Visitation: Will be one hour prior to the service at the church.

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM Thursday, March 5, 2026 at the Aurdal Lutheran Church in Portland, ND.

Burial: Will be in the Aurdal Cemetery in Portland, ND.