Dena P Lachowitzer

Dena Pauline Lachowitzer

Dena Pauline Lachowitzer, 65, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away on August 10, 2026, at Perham Hospital.

Dena was born on December 21, 1960, in New York Mills, Minnesota, to Roy and Marlys “June” Hammer. She grew up in New York Mills and later made her home in Fargo. In recent years, she spent much of her time at the lake home she and her husband built on Sybil Lake near Vergas, Minnesota, a place she loved dearly.

While a senior in high school, Dena met the love of her life, Michael Lachowitzer, at a party. Mike always claimed his opening line won her over, but only because Dena’s quick-witted response made it memorable. They were married on May 23, 1981, in New York Mills and shared 45 years of love, laughter, friendship, and devotion.

Dena earned her Associate degree in Respiratory Therapy and dedicated nearly 46 years to caring for others through her work at Merit Care Hospital, now Sanford Health. Throughout her career, she was recognized multiple times as Respiratory Therapist of the Year and received awards honoring her years of service amongst other achievements. To many coworkers, however, her greatest accomplishment was the care she showed others. Known affectionately as the “work mom,” Dena mentored countless coworkers, offering guidance, encouragement, and support whenever it was needed. She retired in November after a celebrated career of compassion and service.

Dena’s life was marked by selflessness. She consistently put others before herself, worked harder than anyone who knew her, and possessed a quick wit that could brighten any room. She was known for quietly playing card and board games, only to surprise everyone by emerging as the winner. Whether she was playing Up and Down the Creek, Golf, Farkle, Sequence, “That Game,” or working on a puzzle, Dena loved spending time with family and friends.

A lifelong member of Hope Lutheran Church during her years in Fargo, Dena remained faithful and continued supporting the church even after spending more time in Vergas. She volunteered with the schools and organizations that her children participated in and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Above all else, Dena loved her family. She rarely missed a school activity, sporting event, concert, or performance. She believed her children should have every opportunity life could offer and devoted countless hours to supporting, encouraging, and cheering them on. She started working nights to be present when her kids came home from school or had an activity. She taught them to work hard, put others first, and always be willing to help those in need.

Dena found great joy in bringing people together. She was an exceptional cook and baker who loved hosting family holidays and gatherings. No one ever left her home hungry or empty-handed. She delighted in sharing meals, baking pies and cookies, sending thoughtful cards, finding the perfect gift, and making others feel special. Dena also had a well-known love of candy and was always ready with a sweet treat to share.

Some of Dena’s happiest moments were spent at Sybil Lake, enjoying pontoon rides, camping, bonfires, good books, and Hallmark movies with family and friends. Christmas was her favorite season. She loved decorating her many Christmas trees with carefully collected ornaments, baking holiday treats, and searching for meaningful gifts for the people she loved.

Dena is survived by her husband, Mike Lachowitzer of Vergas, Minnesota; her children, Jake Lachowitzer of Fargo, North Dakota, and Tarin (Thomas) Peterson of Cedar Falls, Iowa; soon to be grandson; her mother, Marlys “June” Hammer; sisters, Linda (Edward) Jaakola, Lois (Pete) Greisen, and Judith (Terry) Trader; nephews Derek and Anthony Jaakola, Brandon (Samantha) and Ben (Jodi), and Dustin (Kelli) Greisen; nieces Lindsey (Markus) Singh and Taylor Trader; seven cousins; countless friends; and many former coworkers whose lives she touched.

Dena was preceded in death by her father, Roy Hammer.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 20th at 6:00pm, with a short service to follow at 7:00pm at Hope Lutheran Church South Campus. Visitation will continue Friday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church South Campus. A luncheon will be provided for family and friends following the service. Private burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo.

Dena leaves behind a legacy of hard work, unwavering love and selfless service. Though she will be profoundly missed, her example will continue to inspire everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Her greatest gift was the love and care she gave to those around her.