Robert Eugene Opdahl

Robert E. Opdahl, 84, from Fargo, ND, was called home on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at Bethany Retirement Living on 42nd in Fargo, ND.

Robert was born on October 8, 1933 in Lisbon, ND, the son of Elmer and Martha (Rebelski) Opdahl. He grew up with eight brothers and sisters in Lisbon, ND. After graduating from Lisbon High School, he joined the U.S. Navy. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he met and later married Darlene L. Branden in June 1959. Together, they took up residence in Fargo, ND where Robert attended and graduated from Interstate Business College and began his 32-year career with Northern States Power Company, first as a bookkeeper and then as a dispatcher. Robert enjoyed carpentry and was a skilled carpenter and handyman, building the house in which he and Darlene raised their four children. Throughout his life, he was very generous with his time and talents, helping family and friends with all kinds of projects large and small, as well as serving as Treasurer for his church and volunteer with toy repair and distribution for the American Legion. During his retirement years, Robert was very active socially, and many knew him as “Dakota Bob.” He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Robert is survived by one daughter, Deborah (Robert) Fralick of Minnetonka, MN; three sons, Steven (Edith) of Minneapolis, MN, Kevin (Sheila) of Fargo, ND, and Paul (Judith) of Fargo, ND; seven grandchildren, Karen (Taylor) Paap, Jonathan Opdahl, Timothy Opdahl, Daniel Opdahl, Patrick Opdahl, Marisa Opdahl, and Christa Opdahl; one sister, Mavis Brantner of Fargo, ND; one brother, Gerry Opdahl of Tillamook, OR; and several nieces, nephews and step-grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; his father, Elmer; his mother, Martha; his brothers, Don, Elmer, James, and Curtis; and his sisters, Lucille and Marge.