Calvin Bakken

Calvin “Cal/Kelly” Noble Bakken was born on June 5, 1949, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Vernon and Violet (Nelson) Bakken. He passed away on October 25, 2026. He graduated from Milnor High School in 1968.

Cal enjoyed farm life and spent many years working alongside farmers, driving truck, and helping with various farm duties. He also worked for implement dealers and numerous over-the-road trucking companies. In addition, he drove truck for construction companies throughout Minnesota and North Dakota. Cal proudly served in the North Dakota Army National Guard for 15 years.

On July 13, 1970, Cal married Betty Hins, and together they raised three children: Kristi, Chad, and Karla. He later married Barb Fortier on December 11, 2004.

Cal will be remembered for his years of hard work and dedication to the farming, trucking, and construction industries, as well as his service to his country.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Violet Bakken; his brother, David Bakken; and his grandson, Jacob Bakken.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Kristi (Jeff) Skyberg of East Grand Forks, MN; Chad (Patty) Bakken of Devils Lake, ND; and Karla (Mike) Riley of Fargo, ND.

He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Rylee (Nolan) Hallaway of Blaine, MN; Macy Skyberg, Dylan Bakken, Kaitlyn Bakken and Noah Riley all of Fargo, ND; and his great-grandson, Beckham Hallaway; as well as his brother, Harold (Roberta) Bakken of Huntsville, AL; sister-in-law Sharon Bakken of Hawley, MN; and several nieces and cousins.

Cal’s life was marked by years of hard work, service, and dedication. He will be remembered by his family and friends.

The family sends a big heartfelt thank you to the ND Veterans Nursing Home. Especially the wonderful nurses who took care of Cal and enjoyed his humor and “looks”!