Orris Evenstad

Orris W. Evenstad , 83, Grand Forks, died Saturday, July 30, 2011 in Valley Memorial Homes Eldercare Center, Grand Forks. Orris Wingness Evenstad was born to James and Ragna (Wingness) Evenstad on August 22, 1927 in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He graduated from high school at Reynolds, North Dakota. Orris served in the US Navy in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre from May 2, 1945 until he was discharged from the military on August 19, 1946. Orris Evenstad and Ethel Morstad were united in marriage on October 4, 1952 in Crookston, Minnesota. He was employed as a meat cutter for National T Grocery Store. In 1959 he began employment as a fireman for the Grand Forks Fire Department which he continued for 29 years until taking early retirement in 1988 so that he could provide care for his loving wife, Ethel. He also did carpentry and was employed by Jackson Builders of Grand Forks. Orris enjoyed camping and gardening. In his retirement he was an avid woodworker and woodcarver, and treasured spending time with his grandchildren. Orris is survived by his sons, Dean (Vicky), Thompson, ND, and Jay (Susan), Grand Forks; grandchildren, Lora, Ryan, and Brent. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Ragna; his wife, Ethel; brothers, Roger and Marlin; and a daughter, Julie Ann, who died in infancy. Funeral Services: 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2011 in United Lutheran Church, 324 Chestnut St., Grand Forks. Visitation: one hour prior to the service in the church. Interment: Memorial Park North Cemetery, Grand Forks. Military Honors: North Dakota National Guard Funeral Honors and East Grand Forks American Legion Post #157 and VFW Post #3817