Wade E. Digerness, age 71, of Moorhead, MN, passed away on Thursday, August 21,
2026, at his home under the care of HIA Hospice and the staff of Connections.
Wade Eric Digerness, a man of quiet faith and resilience, entered this world on February
7, 1955, in Fargo, ND, born to Harris and Luella Digerness. His spiritual journey began
with his baptism at Sundal Lutheran Church in rural Gary, MN, and was further nurtured
through his confirmation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lansing, MI.
Wade’s early years were spent in Holt, Michigan, where he attended the Holt Public
School system from elementary through graduation. Eager to expand his horizons, he
later attended Lansing Community College, earning a two-year certificate of excellence
in Labor Relations and Marketing. During his youth, Wade was also a proud member of
the Boy Scouts, where he developed a lasting appreciation for community and service.
Alongside his father, Wade spent many years as a dedicated volunteer at Bethlehem
Lutheran Church. His professional path was diverse and industrious; in Michigan, he
worked on the set-up crew for the local convention center and held various roles within
the Lansing restaurant scene. After moving to Cape Coral, FL, with his parents in 1984,
Wade continued his hard work as a groundskeeper and at a local convenience store.
Wade found great solace and joy in the written word. Whether reading independently or
listening to the Bible, he cherished the stories and lessons of history, with a particular
fascination for the events of World War II. His passion for media was evident in his
extensive collection of books, CDs, cassette tapes, and DVDs—a library of the things
he loved most.
Known for being clever, artistic, and creative, Wade had a unique way of looking at the
world. He taught those around him to appreciate the beauty in simplicity—whether it
was the joy of a perfect milkshake, the sweet comfort of a candy bar or the
peacefulness he enjoyed while listening to relaxing music.
While Wade faced significant mental and physical health challenges with remarkable
strength, he was never alone in his journey. He was blessed to live with his parents for
many years, benefiting from their love and support. In his later years, he was
surrounded by a community of care, receiving exceptional kindness from the staff at
Connections Group Home, his guardian Keith Gohdes, and his many devoted cousins.
Wade’s life was a testament to the power of a gentle spirit and the importance of family
and faith. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness and the quiet dignity with which
he lived his life.
Wade is preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; aunts, Sylvia Gohdes and
Diana Olson; and Uncle Donald Eid.
He is survived by his guardian/cousin Keith (Mary) Gohdes, Mapleton, ND, and cousins:
Kathleen Gohdes, Pelican Rapids, MN, Melanie Fransen, Shorewood, MN, Rev.
Stephen (Heidi) Gohdes, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Denise (Joe) Huebsch, St. Cloud,
MN, and Michelle (Todd) Christiansen, Sartell, MN; and many more cousins and second
cousins.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Sundal
Lutheran Cemetery, rural Gary, MN.
