Richard L. Danda

Richard L. Danda, age 78, of Michigan, ND, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND.

Richard Leo Danda was born March 27, 1946, in Michigan, ND, the son of Leo and Mary (Ridl) Danda.  He was born and raised on the family farm near Michigan, ND, and graduated from Michigan High School with the Class of 1964.  Richard spent most of his life as a dedicated farmer, a vocation that he embraced with passion and pride.  He briefly studied to become an electrician at NDSCS in Wahpeton.  He ventured to Chicago for a short time and worked as a tool and die operator at a spring factory.  He returned to his hometown of Michigan, ND and worked for GTA elevator before moving to Penn, ND where he managed the local elevator, making lasting connections within the community.  In 1975, Richard returned to his roots with his young family back to the farm.  He began farming and milking cows with his father and brother, Allen.  Until the day he died, Richard continued to farm alongside his brother Allen, a testament to his dedication and love for the land and his family.

A devoted husband and father, Richard married Patricia S. Haggerty on October 29,1966.  Together, they raised four children.  Richard’s family was the cornerstone of his life; he treasured the time spent with them, always sharing laughter and stories that would bring joy to any gathering.  His great sense of humor and love for storytelling left a lasting impression on all who knew him.  He was not just a farmer but a friend to many, making connections through his warmth and genuine spirit.  Richard’s legacy will live on through the love he fostered, the stories he shared, and the family he cherished.  He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Richard was a faithful man, deeply spiritual in his beliefs.  His faith guided him throughout his life, providing strength and comfort during both joyous and challenging times.

Richard was so grateful for the dear friends who have been instrumental in supporting him in farming while he managed his illness the past few years.  Without the generous acts of kindness, he would not have been able to keep farming as long as he was able.  The family appreciates the genuine friendships that had sustained him.

Richard was preceded in death by his father and mother, aunts, uncles and grandparents, and brothers-in-law.  He will be dearly missed by his wife of 57 years, Patricia “Pat” Danda and his beloved dog Sparky, of Michigan, ND, daughter Anissa (Lance) Gartner of Glen Ullin, ND, son Mark (Julie) Danda of Foley, MN, daughter Laura (Patrick) Fisher of Horace, ND and son Paul (Andrea) Danda of Audubon, MN.  14 grandchildren, Alyson, Elizabeth (Robert), Jacob (Genevieve), Michael, Joseph, John, Kyle, Meagan, Kelsey, Zachery, Matthew, Alina, Isabella, and Callum.  8 great-grandchildren, Jane, Peter, Thomas, Katie, Mark, Benedict, Danielle, and Luciana.  His sister, Virginia Esslinger and niece MaryJo, of Grand Forks, ND, brother, Allen Danda of Michigan, ND, sister, Patti (Bruce) Graham of Lebam, WA, sisters-in-law Maryann Neeser, Forest Lake, MN, Sue Haggerty, Bloomington, MN, Kate Haggerty, Middletown, PA, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Lawrence O’Toole Catholic Church, Michigan, ND, on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 10:30 am.  Interment will be in the Michigan Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at the Church on Thursday, beginning at 5:00 pm with a Rosary & Vigil Service at 7:00 pm.  Visitation will continue at the Church on Friday, for one hour prior to Mass.