Neil Modin

Neil Leroy Modin, 91, of Bismarck, passed away on October 22, 2025.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, October 29, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck. Burial will be held at 3:00 PM, Wednesday, October 29, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan.

Neil was born on October 13, 1934, to Donald and Vivian (Crider) Modin in Kenmare, ND. He grew up on the family farm, with a brief stay in California before returning to the homestead in North Dakota.

Neil met the love of his life, Donna Classon, in Fargo, and the two were married on June 22, 1956, sharing 69 wonderful years together. To this union they welcome four children, Sherry, Randal, Scott, and Vicki.

He attended North Dakota State University, where he enrolled in a program leading to the Air Force and earned his bachelor’s degree in agriculture. Neil completed his Air Force training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, and served as a navigator stationed in Waco, TX. Upon returning to North Dakota, he finished his education and continued his service in the North Dakota Air National Guard, the Happy Hooligans.

Neil began his professional career with the Farmers Home Administration in North Dakota, working in Fargo, Cooperstown, and Bowbells before settling in Bismarck, where he remained. He served as Chief of Community Services, a role he took great pride in. Neil was instrumental in the development of assisted living facilities, providing loans to farmers, and implementing rural water systems across North Dakota—projects that positively impacted countless lives.

Neil enjoyed spending time outdoors, fishing, hunting, gardening, and birdwatching. He loved traveling, both across the country and abroad, and cherished time spent with his family above all else. He served for many years as chairman of Burnt Creek Township and took great pride in helping build a home for each of his children.

He was well-known among family and friends for his warm personality, strong work ethic, and his legendary barbecue ribs—the best around.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Vivian Modin; parents in-law, Clarence and Thelma Classon; and his littlest great-grandson, Colt Modin.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Donna Modin; children, Sherry (Dean) Nelson of Rosemount, MN, Randal (Kathy) Modin of Bismarck, Scott Modin of Bismarck, and Vicki Peterson of Bismarck; sister, Myrna Cook of California; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, with two more on the way.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Family Voices of North Dakota with a memo of The Vivian and Neil Modin Giving Account, PO Box 163, Edgeley, ND 58433.