Orville Skadsem

Orville Stiner Skadsem, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by his loving family. He was 94 years old.

Visitation will be from 5-7 PM, with a prayer service at 6:30 PM, and one hour before the funeral service, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Thief River Falls, MN Friday, August 22, 2025.

Funeral service will be 11 AM Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Thief River Falls, MN.

Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Newfolden, MN.

Born on August 12, 1931, in Hoople, North Dakota, Orville was the cherished son of Oscar Sanford Skadsem and Nellie Edith (Johnston) Skadsem. He attended Blackberg School in Marshall County, where he began a lifelong journey of learning, hard work, and dedication. In 1945, he was confirmed in Newfolden Bethlehem Lutheran Church, a milestone that reflected his enduring faith and values.

Orville proudly served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1954, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He was stationed in Korea during the Korean War, where he demonstrated courage, leadership, a deep commitment to his country and was awarded the Purple Heart.

After returning home, Orville worked on a farm in Hoople, North Dakota from 1954 to 1955. He then began a career as a mechanic, working for Tunberg Motors from 1955 to 1962. In 1962, he joined Land O' Lakes as a diesel mechanic, where he remained until his retirement in 1994. His skill, reliability, and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of many.

On November 7, 1952, Orville married Marion Ardith Sorenson. Together they built a life rooted in love and family until Marion's passing on February 19, 1989. Later, on July 21, 1990, Orville found companionship once again when he married Frances Orlean Ueland Gustafson Skadsem. Their union brought renewed joy and partnership in his later years.

In retirement, Orville pursued his passion for restoring antique tractors and engines, a hobby that reflected both his mechanical talent and his love for agricultural heritage. He was an active member of the Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers (LIRPF) Threshing Bee, where he served as a director for eight years and treasurer for another eight years, beginning in the late 1980s. His dedication helped preserve farming traditions and foster community among fellow enthusiasts.

Orville was also a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans. His commitment to service extended into his faith community as well-he served as a trustee at his home church at Evangelical Covenant Church, Thief River Falls, MN. Orville was dedicated to attending church, the care and ministry of the church; also held the role of financial secretary for three years.

He cherished time spent outdoors, especially deer hunting with his children and grandchildren. He loved taking trips with his family, creating memories filled with laughter, storytelling, and togetherness. These moments were among his greatest joys and will be fondly remembered by all who shared them.

Orville is survived by his wife, Frances; children Ricky (Susan) Skadsem of Pelican Rapids, MN; Alora (Michael) Gaddy of Conyers, GA; Ronald (Stephanie) Skadsem of Fosston, MN; daughter-in-law, Susan Skadsem of Newfolden, MN; step-children: Rick (Jodi) Gustafson of Bottineau, ND; Cathy (Steve) Halstensgaard of Detroit Lakes, MN; Kyle (Lynette) Gustafson of Greenbush, MN; and Jodi (Nathan) Anderson of Thief River Falls, MN;.

He was a proud grandfather to 23 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren; sister: Viola Anderson, Menahga, MN; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Marion; his son, Randy; his parents, Oscar and Nellie Skadsem; siblings Doris Kliner, Willis Skadsem, Myrtle "Mickey" Anderson, Alfreda Bach and Norris Skadsem; and great-grandsons Christian Skadsem and Parker Skadsem.