Donald D. Fish

Donald Fish, 83, died Sunday, August 17, 2014 at Altru Hospital after a short illness with his sister, Shirley and niece Linda at his side. Donald Duane Fish was born September 24, 1930 to Agnes Marian (Wirkus) and Melvin Fish in a Grand Forks hospital. Don was confirmed in the United Lutheran Church and graduated from Grand Forks Central High School. He attended and graduated from the North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton in the electrical field. Don wanted to serve his country. After eight attempts to enlist into military service, he was drafted into the Army/Air Force in 1951 and served during the Korea conflict. After serving honorably, Don bought his home in Long Beach, California and enjoyed a career working at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard. He was an avid reader following the trends and advancements in science and current events. Don had a passion and connection with the animals, extending beyond his own dogs and cats, he took in and cared for others that needed a family. Don returned to Grand Forks after the Flood of 1997, and enjoyed spending time with his family, Shirley and Lloyd Olson, David Torgerson, Linda Olson and animal friends, Charlie and Bo. Don was an avid Vikings fan and never missed a game during the football season. He followed the players and wore his Vikings shirts proudly (even when the team was in a slump). Don is survived by his sisters Shirley Olson, Grand Forks and Meloday (Michael) Boyle, Bartlett, IL, and brother Larry (Mary Anne) Kjemhus, Thompson, ND. Don was beloved by his many nieces and nephews. Don has joined those who have preceded him in death; his grandparents, Mike and Josephine Wirkus, his parents, brother-in-law, Lloyd Olson, his special friend, Rose and his many animal friends that he cared for during his life. Memorials can be sent to United Lutheran Church or the Wounded Warrior Program Services: 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 21, 2014 in Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 S. 42nd St., Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service in the funeral home. Interment and Military Honors will follow in Memorial Park North Cemetery.