Wilmar "Bill" F. Laskey

Memorial Service: https://vimeo.com/935075650

Tribute Video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/FDGZ5DC6LBKX9CM9

Wilmar F. (Bill) Laskey, age 95, passed away peacefully March 29, 2024, at St Catherine South, Fargo, ND.

Bill was born on April 28, 1928 in Wahpeton, ND, to Stanley and Sylvia Laskey. He graduated from Wahpeton High School, as well as Bullis Prep in Washington DC. He declined his appointment to Annapolis, then completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Minnesota, where he was in ROTC.

On June 13, 1952, Bill married Ethel Mae (Em) Rutherford. He served two years in army ordinance in Detroit, Michigan and Nuremberg, Germany, 1952-54. He then moved to Fargo-Moorhead, where he maintained his primary residence, while spending summers at Lake Melissa, Detroit Lakes, and, later, winters in Pharr, Texas. He lived his last four years at Touchmark in Fargo.

Bill worked his way up and eventually managed (with his brother) the family businesses: Northwestern Sheet and Iron Works, Northwestern Equipment, Midland Diesel. He was on national and local boards for Associated Equipment Distributors (AED), and the board for ND Associated General Contractors (NDAGC). At one time he was President of the Fargo Jaycees, and was active in the Jaycees, American Legion, El Zagel Shrine, Shrine Chanters and Sertoma service club. He was an active member and part of the choir at his church, First Congregational UCC of Fargo. He was also a member of the Tropic Star Choir, Pharr, TX, and announcer for the Rio Grande Valley Concert Band.

Bill's favorite times were spent with his family, playing golf, playing at the lakes, traveling, sharing meals, exchanging stories, and did I mention playing golf? He left clear memories of wonderful jokes and wise advice, and his ever-present smile. His children could always count on his encouragement and support, and his friends counted on a fun time with him. He loved to golf anywhere and any time. He traveled all over the world with the family, and especially with Em. He was honored and loved by family and acquaintances everywhere he went.

Bill is survived by his wife, Em, with whom he spent nearly 72 years, four children: Jan Laskey (Mark Schletty) of Seattle, WA, Karen (Jerry) Barnes of Sioux Falls, SD, John Laskey (Deonne Varriano) of Fargo, and Paul Laskey of Prior Lake, MN; four grandchildren: Adam (Krystal) Laskey (Mapleton, ND) Bret Laskey (Fargo), Daniel (Mané) Barnes (Armenia), Katie Barnes (Denver, CO); and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents and his sister and brother: Marilyn (Bruce) Wilson, and Roger (Rosemary) Laskey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Congregational UCC of Fargo, Hospice of the Red River Valley, Shriners' Children's Hospitals, or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at First Congregational UCC of Fargo on Monday, April 15th, at 2:30 PM. Visitation will be at the church from 1:30-2:30 before the service.