Douglas Klemetson Obituary
Published by Legacy on Feb. 15, 2025.
Douglas "Doug" Klemetson, age 77, of Fargo, ND, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at SMP Health St. Catherine South in Fargo, after a courageous battle with dementia.
Douglas Lynn Klemetson was born on August 14, 1947, in Fargo, ND, to Lyle and Norma (Peterson) Klemetson. He grew up in Flom, MN, and graduated from Twin Valley High School in 1966. Following graduation, Doug enlisted in the United States Navy and served with honor during the Vietnam War as a Boatswain's Mate aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard aircraft carrier in Vietnam.
Following his honorable discharge in 1970, Doug met the love of his life, Sandy Caldwell, and the two were married on November 20, 1971, at Aspland Lutheran Church in Flom. They built a life together in the Fargo-Moorhead area, where Doug pursued mechanical training at Minnesota State Community and Technical College. He worked in various roles at Wallwork Truck Center and a Ford dealership before finding his true calling with the Fargo Park District. For over three decades, Doug dedicated himself to maintaining the greens at Edgewood Golf Course, where his meticulous craftsmanship and expertise in grinding reels ensured that golfers enjoyed pristine playing conditions. He officially retired in 2009 after 30 years of dedicated service.
Golf was more than a pastime for Doug-it was a passion, a way of life. If the sun was up, you could find him on the course, fine-tuning his swing, teaching his children how to play, or competing in leagues with friends. Beyond playing, Doug took immense pride in his work behind the scenes, knowing that a perfectly manicured course could make all the difference in the game he loved. When he wasn't on the golf course, Doug found joy in riding his touring Harley for several years. He was headstrong, confident, and fiercely devoted to his family. No matter the challenge, Doug always put his loved ones first, ensuring they were cared for and supported.
Doug is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sandy Klemetson; son, Joe (Alicia) Klemetson of West Fargo, ND; daughter, Rachel (Courtney) Rutherford of Barnesville, MN; six grandchildren: Chris, Lillian, Dalton, Joey, Oliver, and Sophie; brothers-in-law, Matt (Christian) Wambach and Kenny (Laurie) Wambach; sisters-in-law: Donna Klemetson, Colleen (Paul Jacobson) Caldwell, and Christine (Randy) Dorr; and many nieces and nephews.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Norma Klemetson, and his siblings, Lyle "Orrie" Klemetson and Sherrie Erickson.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 2:00 pm, with a visitation one hour before, at Aspelund Lutheran Church, 1043 County Highway 38, Flom, MN. Burial will take place at Aspelund Lutheran Cemetery rural Flom.
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