Gary Gene Justesen

1942 - 2025

Gary Gene Justesen, age 82, Fargo, ND, formerly of Litchville, ND, passed away peacefully at Chandler Regional Medical Center on April 1, 2025. He was born Dec. 7,1942 in Chicago, Ill. to Ray and Cora (Leidall) Justesen.

Gary graduated from LHS in 1960. He then joined the Army National Guard and pursued business degree from Interstate Business School in Fargo, ND. He was hired at the Litchville State Bank and employed there for over 30 years. During this time, he also took over the family farming business from his dad.

On June 15, 1963, Gary married Nancy Olafson in Litchville, ND. They resided there for over 55 years raising their children, Terry, Tori and Nicole. In January of 2021 they moved to Fargo, ND.

Gary enjoyed golfing, traveling, life at the lake, playing cards, and visits with family and friends. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren creating memories that will be cherished forever.

He was an active community member serving on several boards. Gary was a member of First Lutheran Church, Litchville, El Zagel Shrine, Masonic Lodge #7, Eagles and Elks.

Gary's favorite song was "I did it my way." True to his word, he left us April 1st with family at his side. We were blessed to share his life, love. and wisdom for 82 years.

Gary is survived by his wife of 62 years Nancy, children Terry (Lori) Justesen, Tori (Buck) Archer, Nicole Justesen, sister Vicky (Bob) Hlubek, eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, sisters-in-law Ginny (Clay) Pollert, Connie (Marc) Ford, Debbie (Lee) Ulstad, brother-in-law Harlee (Danita) Olafson and many special nieces and nephews.

Death may leave a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, daughter-in-law Pam (Flatley) Justesen, sister Donette and his mother and father in-law.

The funeral service for Gary will be 1 am Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Lutheran Church of the Cross, West Fargo, ND. Visitation gathering will be 11 am to 1 pm at the church before the service. Burial will be in Memory Gardens, Valley City.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Oliver-Nathan Funeral Chapel, Valley City, ND. An online guestbook is available at www.olivernathanchapel.com.