Wayne Gjerde

Wayne Gjerde, age 61, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on August 21, 2025. He was born on April 8, 1964, to Robert and LaVaun (Schons) Gjerde and spent his life surrounded by family, laughter, and the kind of loyalty that cannot be taught-only lived.

Wayne was a father before anything else. His five children-Jesse, Dylan, Logan, Angel, and Alaina Gjerde-meant the world to him. They were his reason to keep going during the hardest moments of his life. They gave him strength, just as he gave his strength to them. He took pride in watching them grow, build families, and find their own paths. He welcomed Emily, Debbie, and Jade into the family with open arms, and he absolutely adored being a grandpa to Victor, Ingrid, and Lenny.

Wayne spent over 10 years living a sober life, a journey he walked with humility and courage. His recovery was not something he ever bragged about, it was just another way he quietly showed up, day after day. He did not pretend to be perfect, and that's exactly why people trusted him. He had a way of listening without judgment and help even when he did not know exactly how. If someone needed something, he would always try to help.

He had his own way of staying connected: quick messages every morning and night just to say he was thinking of you. "Good morning" and "Good night" might seem small, but to those who received them, they were constant reminders that someone cared. That was Wayne. He made time, even when he did not have it.

Wayne shared his later years with his loving partner, Brenda Hill, who brought joy, laughter, and warmth into his life. Together, they made memories filled with love and companionship.

He is survived by his children: Jesse (Emily) Gjerde, Dylan (Debbie) Gjerde, Logan (Jade) Gjerde, Angel Gjerde and Alaina Gjerde. His siblings: Jeff (Linda) Klobuchar, Shelly Breitenfeldt, Craig Klobuchar, Sherry (Rob) Kneifl, Mona Gjerde (Chad Balfe), and Terrie (Floyd) Johnson, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends. He was the kind of person who left a mark on everyone he met-not through grand gestures, but through steady love, quiet support, and genuine care.

Wayne would want to be remembered not for what he had, but for what he gave-his time, his effort, and his heart. And he gave it freely.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Lund Church, 25213 County Hwy 21, Detroit Lakes. Family, friends, and all whose lives Wayne touched are welcome to attend.