Leo W. Danda

Leo W. Danda, age 94, resident of rural Michigan, ND, died Sunday, October 5, 2008 at his beloved farm where he lived for 70 years.

Leo William Danda was born November 24, 1913 on his parents farm near Thief River Falls, MN, the son of Anton and Mary (Doucha) Danda. He attended school there until 1926, when he moved with his parents to the Michigan area. He then attended the Williams Township School. When he completed his studies, Leo began working for area farmers. In 1938 he rented his current homestead until he was able to purchase it. Leo married Mary Ridl on June 3, 1940 at St. Lawrence O'Toole Catholic Church in Michigan. They farmed together near Michigan their entire life. Leo was a member of the Michigan Township Board for over 30 years. Mary died January 2, 1981. When it came to fixing things, Leo was the master of creativity and invention. He loved using his hands to make new things from scrap metal. He had an unbelievable memory and quick wit. We wish to thank Altru Hospice, McVille branch, for the help & support they provided as we honored Dad's wish to die on his farm.

Leo will be greatly missed by his 4 children, Virginia Esslinger of Grand Forks, ND, Allen Danda of Michigan, ND, Richard (Pat) Danda of Michigan, ND, and Patricia (Bruce) Graham of Lebam, WA; 9 grandchildren; 15.9 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and his 6 puppies, Spike, Butch, Cookie, Cocoa, Katie, and Skippy.

He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; 7 brothers, Anton, John, Frank, Joe, George, Alois, and Adolph; an infant sister, Anna; and a son-in-law, Buddy Esslinger.

Leo's Funeral Mass will be held at St. Lawrence O'Toole Catholic Church of Michigan, ND, on Thursday, October 9, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. Celebrating the Mass will be Rev. Fr. John Aerts. Music will be provided by the St. Lawrence Church Choir, Dolly Devlin is the organist. Interment will be in the Michigan Cemetery. Casketbearers will be Mark Danda, Paul Danda, Jim Danda, Adolph Danda Jr., Greg LaHaise, and Jerry Bjornstad. Visitation will be held at the Church on Wednesday, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary and Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at the Church on Thursday, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass.