Donald Overgaard

Donald O. Overgaard, 87, passed away February 23, 2025, in Green Valley, AZ after living with cancer for 10 years. 

Don was born December 18, 1937 in Fergus Falls, MN, to parents Archie and Mabel (Sonstebo) Overgaard. He was raised on the family farm in Dalton, MN. For High School he attended the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston. Don enlisted in the Army in March of 1956 and after completing training he was in the Army Reserves until February 1964. In June of 1959 he married Harlene Hagen. He was a proud father to two sons, Mark and Scott.

Don was recalled to active service during the Cuban missile crisis from October 1961 to August 1962. Once he was home from the army, Don continued his education at the University of North Dakota from 1962-1965, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The family moved to the Twin Cities in 1965 and shortly after made their home in Roseville, MN. Don loved working on many home improvement projects. He also valued his time coaching baseball and football for his son’s teams and participating in Toast Masters.

Don had several jobs throughout the years including manufacturing, data processing and owning his own commercial cleaning business. He finished his career in sales where he retired in December of 2004. After retirement he started spending time in Green Valley, AZ. He was a snowbird for several years before deciding to permanently move there. He appreciated the opportunity to do some handyman work in Arizona.

Don enjoyed downhill skiing and cross-country, as well as ski jumping in his younger years. He also liked to spend time outdoors which sometimes included hunting geese, ducks, and deer. Don was always willing to help his sons with their projects, big or small. He enjoyed talking with others, especially while having coffee and a cookie. The weather in Minnesota was always a topic of interest along with his Norwegian heritage. Most importantly, Don loved his family.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Mabel; and his sister, Mary.

He is survived by his sons, Mark and Scott (Jessica); grandson, Jeremy; siblings, Ardis Searles, Helen Rix, Paul, Brenda (Pat) Kava; his partner, Carrie Klomstad; and many friends.

Memorials preferred to Sons of Norway Foundation.

A celebration of life will be held at 12 Noon, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Glende-Nilson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls, MN. A burial will be held at Knollwood Memorial Gardens in Fergus Falls, MN. Arrangements with Glende-Nilson Funeral Homes.