Dennis Omar Gullingsrud

Dennis Gullingsrud was born on February 11, 1928, and attended school in Climax, MN. After graduation, he enlisted in the army and served with distinction in Korea from 1950-52. Upon return, he attended NDSU, graduating with a degree in geology. He went on to have a long career as an Allstate Insurance agent in Fargo.

In 1953, he married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Sharpe. They enjoyed 69 wonderful years together, raising four children and going on many adventures. Dennis was devoted to his family, always putting them first in his life. He loved a good adventure. He and Joyce took their family on yearly vacations to various destinations, his favorite being the Tetons in Wyoming. He also built a cabin on Tulaby Lake in Minnesota, where he and the family spent many memorable summers swimming, water skiing, and fishing. In the fall, he enjoyed time deer and goose hunting. After the children were grown, they still enjoyed taking trips together; from walking the beaches of Normandy, France, to eating at their favorite restaurant in Park Rapids, MN.

He was an expert craftsman, designing unique furniture pieces for his house, and as gifts for his family. He and Joyce enjoyed tending a yard and garden that was the envy of the neighborhood. He loved a good piece of chocolate, a cup of hot, black coffee, and working on his daily crossword puzzle. He was known for creating his own recipes for many favorite foods, especially his famous spaghetti sauce and hot fudge for ice cream. As a lifelong avid Vikings fan, he always hoped to see them win a Super Bowl.

He dearly loved and was proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They always knew they had his support whatever the circumstances, helping in the tough times, and celebrating the joys and successes. He was never happier than when we were all out together for pizza and beer or around the dining room table sharing stories and laughing. His humor and strength will be missed. He passed away February 21, 2024 after a brief illness.

He was preceded in death by his partner in life, Joyce, his parents Carl and Mabel Gullingsrud, one brother, Vernon, and one sister, Arlys.

He is survived by his children, Lori (Pete) Weidemann and their son, Max (Marissa Porter); Mary (Brad) Mohs and their children Ben (Sarah) Mohs and Amanda (Colin) Marum; Mark Gullingsrud and his daughter Nichole (Aaron) Bye; and Tracy (Randy) Walvatne and their children Katie Jo and Simon. He also was a very proud great-grandfather to Carter and Henry Mohs, Jameson Marum, and Oliver and Nora Bye.

He is also survived by two sisters, Lyla Fiers, and Sharon Hardy.

In memory of Dennis, donations to Bethany Retirement Living or ETHOS are preferred.
Inseparable in life, Dennis and Joyce’s final wishes were to be buried together, side by side, with a simple graveside service. To honor their wishes, there will be only graveside services, which will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at St. Petri Cemetery, Nielsville, MN.