Fredric Nygord

Fredric “Fred” Deene Nygord, 91, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Valley Senior Living, Grand Forks, ND.

Fred was born near Finley, ND, on November 1, 1933, to John and Ovidia (Frojen) Nygord. In 1959 he met the love of his life and future wife Mary Beth Gargrave. They were married on July 10th, 1960 at Sundahl Lutheran Church in Aneta, ND. In 1960, they made their home in Grand Forks, ND. Together, they created a warm and loving home for their six children: John, Sandra, Dave, James, Cory, and Brian. James passed away as an infant.

Fred was a man of many talents, known especially for his skill in construction. Whether building garages, sheds, or tackling roofing projects, his precision and craftsmanship were evident in every task he undertook. Professionally, he spent much of his life as a truck driver, expertly maneuvering trailers and navigating highways with unmatched confidence. Fred's love for travel shone through family road trips in his motorhome, creating lasting memories with every mile.

A devoted husband and father, Fred shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with Mary. He cherished his role as a father and grandfather. 

Fred joined the Marine Corps in 1953, where he earned his GED. He went on to serve his country in the Army National Guard and dedicated over 20 years as a civil servant at the Grand Forks Air Force Base. His unwavering commitment to service was a defining aspect of his character.

In his free time, Fred enjoyed the outdoors through hunting, fishing, and boating. Known for his skill with claw machines, he delighted his grandchildren by winning countless toys and prizes with his steady hand and sharp eye. A man of faith, Fred was a longtime member of University Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. 

Fred is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his children, John (Linda) of Grand Forks, ND, Sandy (Mitch) of Grand Forks, ND, Dave (Melanie) of Crystal, MN, Cory (Jennifer) of Oceanside, CA, and Brian (Kirsten) of Fargo, ND; his grandchildren: Daniel (Molly), Christopher, Madison, Carter, Kaia, Connor, Taryn, Natalie, Jessica, Elsa, and Jackie; his great-grandchildren: Ben, Vinny, Ida, and Jude; his sister-in-law, Joanne Nygord; his sister-in-law Sofia Gargrave; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Fred is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Dennis and Robert; his father-and mother-in-law, John and Ida Gargrave; his brother-in-law, John Gargrave Jr.; his sister-in-law, Irene; his beloved son, James; and his granddaughter, Tabetha.

Fred’s legacy lives on through the love he shared, the work he crafted, and the memories he created. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at University Lutheran Church, 2122 University Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58203, on April 25th, 2025—more details will come later.