Dennis Melland

It is with great sadness the family of Dennis Melland announces his passing on Friday, March 12, 2004 after a 28 month courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig?s Disease). He passed away surrounded by the love of his family and under the care of hospice. Dennis Melland was born to Gilmer and Freda Melland in Kenmare, North Dakota on August 14, 1952. He grew up in Kenmare, attended school, and graduated from High School in Kenmare, after which he attended the University of North Dakota, Williston for two years. Dennis moved to Colorado where he lived in Boulder and Arvada, Colorado for four years. He returned to the Kenmare, ND area in 1974 and lived there until coming to Fargo later in 1974. He worked for the Versatile Tractor Plant as Service Rep. until going to work with Cenex. He then worked at Nelson International and later at the Crary Company in West Fargo for 8 years. Dennis worked for the Case Corporation until March of 2002. Denny enjoyed watching the many sporting events of the children, such as Ashlie competing in track and dance, and playing competitive games of basketball with Neomi. He was an avid hunter with Bryce, his daughter Leslie, and dearest friend Steve Cottrell and his son Brock. Denny?s enjoyment also included a special companion named TJ, the family dog. TJ and Denny had many special times together. TJ added a spark to Denny?s life when it was needed most. Summertime was spent at the lake where he enjoyed special times with family and friends. Dennis was an avid Bison fan and was always ready for a great debate against Sioux fans. Go Bison! Dennis played such a special and important role in so many lives. His words of wisdom and his love will guide us and touch our hearts forever. He is survived by his Partner and Friend Cindy Zimmerman, Fargo, ND Father Gilmer (Rene) Melland, Kenmare, ND and Mesa, AZ. Children Leslie, Fargo, ND Ashlie, Fargo, ND Neomi (Scott) Hammond, Devils, Lake, ND Bryce Vanderwerff, Fargo, ND Brother Donald (Loretta) Melland, Kenmare, ND He was preceded in death by his mother and a sister who died at birth. Visitation: Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00p.m with a prayer service at 8:00 p.m in the Boulger Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, March 17th at 2:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND Burial: Riverside Cemetery, Fargo, ND. Arrangements by Boulger Funeral Home, Fargo, ND Online guest book at www.boulgerfuneralhome.com