Donald Clarence Hensch

Donald Clarence Hensch, 81, of Fargo, passed away on May 4, 2025.

A church service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Gethsemane Episcopal Cathedral, Fargo, ND with visitation starting at 9:30 a.m.

Don was born June 8, 1943 in Fergus Falls, MN to Henry & Anna (Miller) Hensch. He had four siblings and spent the majority of his childhood on a farm near Campbell, MN graduating from Campbell High School in 1961.

He married Marilyn West in May of 1963. They moved to Fargo in the fall of 1963 and lived in a quiet neighborhood with a beautiful yard which they both enjoyed tending to throughout the years. They were blessed with two sons, Troy (May of 1966), and Trevor (November of 1970).

He spent many years working for the Teamsters at North Star Dairy, and retired as a Freight Driver, still a teamster to this day. Upon retirement, he enjoyed a part-time job within the Fargo school district.

Don and Marilyn traveled internationally and often to warmer destinations. They spent many years wintering in Lake Havasu, AZ, sharing stories and memories with other snowbird friends from various states. Tuesdays the Hand and Foot Game “Canadian Style” with their Arizona friends was always special to him.

Competitive by nature, he enjoyed being apart of the Pinocle league, playing Cribbage, puzzles and other card games with Marilyn, his grandchildren, and his friends. When each game ended, he would often analyze the specifics of the cards that had been played, always identifying the details of what could have been played differently to get the win. He would often tell his grandchildren that some have certain instincts, and some, do not. (We won’t name, names.)

Don will be deeply missed by his wife, Marilyn Hensch; his son, Trevor Hensch; his daughters-in-law, Gayle Hensch and Beth Hensch; his grandchildren, Ashley (Bobby) Penney, Kaitlynn Hensch, Zach (Ashleigh) Hensch, Calli Roberts, Henry Hensch; his great grandchildren Kaden & Alaina Penney, Aramis & Kiernan Hensch, Dutton Pope and 1 soon to be greatgrandchild; and siblings, Ed (Pat) Hensch, Byron (Tanya) Hensch, and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Anna Hensch; sister, Lucille; brother, Allen Hensch; and his son; Troy Hensch.

Don’s family wants to thank the staff of Roger Maris Cancer Center, especially Dr. Wiisanen for the excellent care he received from them. They would also like to thank PAM Rehab for their care as well.