Dean Jaycox

Dean Jaycox, 73, of Fargo, ND, passed away on April 2, 2025, at his home, under the care of Ethos Hospice.

Dean was born on September 23, 1951, in Mankato, MN, to Ellis "Ellie" and Bernice "Bernie" (Rieff) Jaycox. Dean grew up in the Rapidan area and graduated from Rapidan High School. He attended South Central Technical School, where he studied machining and printing, skills that would serve him well throughout his working life.

In his early 20’s, Dean moved to Fargo, where he met Wilma, who became his wife and lifelong partner. Together, they raised five children.

Dean worked for many years at Steiger, now CNH, in Fargo and held various jobs as a machinist at several different companies throughout the area. He was known for his work ethic and dedication. Beyond his professional life, Dean had a deep commitment to serving others, especially those living with chronic illness or special needs. His generosity and compassion left a lasting impact on many lives. Dean also had a love for firearms as well as reloading ammunition.

Dean had an unmistakable sense of humor that endeared him to everyone he met. With a quick wit and warm smile, he made friends wherever he went, and would often give people uncanny nicknames because to Dean, no one was ever a stranger.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Wilma; sons, Jonathan "Ivan" (Stacy) Jaycox of Harwood, ND, Andrew "Roy Gilbert" (Becky) Curtis of Fargo, David "Fudd" Jaycox of Franklin, TN, and Timothy (Cinder) Jaycox of Fargo; daughter, Mari "Jenny" (Aaron "A.I.") Swanson of Lake Norden, SD; and grandchildren, Brynna and Bailey Curtis, and Luca Jaycox.

Dean is also survived by his brothers, Jim (Lynn) Jaycox and Denny (Kristi) Jaycox; sister, JoDee (Larry) Shouts; mother-in-law, Mary Lou Vikse; sister-in-law, Lois (Paul) Johnson; brother-in-law, Jim (Gwenn) Vikse; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Bernice Jaycox; father-in-law, Orland Vikse; sister-in-law, Lynn Vikse; and niece and nephews, Aimee, Loren and Clark Vikse.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 6th from 1 PM – 3 PM with the Funeral Service at 3 PM in Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service, Moorhead.

Dean’s legacy lives on through the kindness he showed to others and the laughter he brought into every room. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.