Chad Fernholz

1976 - 2025

Chad Fernholz
June 22, 1976 - August 20, 2025
Chad Leo was born on June 22, 1976 in Huron, SD to Larry Fernholz and Niece Koss. He is the 2nd oldest of 4 boys; Kelly, Brad, and Danny. He was probably the biggest trouble maker. Chad grew up on the farm in Wessington, SD helping out and causing mischief. There was a farming accident that he recovered from, losing half his thumb. He had the best thumb trick to show his nieces and nephews.
Chad graduated from Wessington, SD. Went to college and worked with his Uncle Tom at Schiltz Manufacturing. He then worked in jewelry at Zales, Roger's, and Greenbergs.
On September 3, 2005, Chad married Jenny in Fargo, ND. He got his bonus daughter, Delanie. Josie Leo was born February 2006. They lived in Harrisburg, SD and then in 2011 Chad and Jenny moved to Buford, ND.
In Williston, Chad worked at Concord, TSC, Northern Valley Electric, and Dakota Supply Group. At each of his jobs, he made great friends and played many practical jokes. Chad loved fireworks and would buy as many as he could and would shoot them for days with his nephews. He taught them how to light them with "secrets". October was his favorite month and would watch scary movies every night.
Chad's greatest joy was his family and friends. He loved his daughters and wife and would never tell them no. Whether it was puppies, cats, chickens, or Amazon, he always said yes. Whenever he could, he would get his nephews and nieces to hang out with him. Whether it was to play video games when they were grounded, corn hole for hours, road hunting for pheasants, or playing golf that needed a helmet, he loved them all. Chad had the patience of a saint and loved playing games. He lived for fun.
When he went home, many hours were spent with his dad, Larry and nephew, Steven. He loved playing pinochle for hours, driving around the county lines, and laughing over stories of old.
Delanie and Josie were the highlight of his life! He loved Delanie and helped her move every year, in rain, sleet, and snow. She knew she could count on him to always be there. She gave him the gift of Jade and he loved being her papa.
Josie, was his buddy for adventure. Many Sundays, he would teach her to drive by going to Smokeys in Bainville, MT. They'd get mini tacos and drummies at the gas station. They spent a lot of time gopher hunting, fishing, and playing Call of Duty. He was so proud of her.
Chad was Jenny's best friend and soul mate. Before they were ever married, they counted on each other. One of the things they enjoyed was their weekly date nights and the casino. He is her greatest love and no one could replace him.
Chad is preceded in death by his dad, Larry; brothers, Brad and Danny. He is survived by Jenny; his daughters, Delanie (granddaughter Jade), and Josie; mom, Niece; step- mom, Cindy; brother, Kelly (Shawn); father-in-law, Jerry (Susan), Sara (Jeffrey), James (Audie), Siera (Zeck), Jessa (Tanner), Seth (Destiny), Kim; and his many nephews and nieces.
Chad was loved by many and loved his family and friends. He will be missed.
Chad's Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 11:00 am at the First Lutheran Church in Williston, ND with Pastor Cindy Gardner presiding. Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at the Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home Chapel of Williston, ND. A Family Service, open to the public, will be held following the visitation at 6:00pm.
The funeral service will be recorded and posted as soon as it is available, you can view Chad's service on his obituary page on our website www.fulkersons.com.
Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home of Williston, ND is assisting the family. Condolences may be left on our Funeral Home website at www.fulkersons.com.