Jack Lavin

jack lavin

Jack M. Lavin, 74, Fargo, passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2013 at Sanford Health, Fargo.

Jack was born November 4, 1938 in Brookings, South Dakota to James and Sarah (Hendrickson) Lavin.  He grew up in this area graduating from Brookings High School.  He served in the Army from 1957-1959 stationed in Germany.  After he was honorably discharged Jack returned to Brookings earning an Economics degree in 1966 from SDSU.  He worked as a plumber and heavy equipment operator working on the missile silos in Rapid City to pay his way through school.  After graduation he started his banking career as a national banking examiner traveling extensively.  Jack married Judy Schmitz in Golva, North Dakota on September 16, 1967.  They lived in Bismarck and the Alexandria area.  Jack moved to Fargo in 1974 where he worked for Fargo National Bank as Executive Vice President of the commercial loan department.  He married Bernie (Pedersen) Welu on June 12, 1976 in Fargo.  He was very proud to be named first President of Hospice of the Red River Valley.  He later worked as Vice President of West Fargo State Bank.  He was President of Aerial Contractors, specializing in overhead telephone lines and underground fiber optic cables.  He was especially proud of their work on Stump Lake.  He loved this work, especially the bidding process.  He retired from there in 2004.

Jack spent many days fishing in Pierre, South Dakota and Minaki, Canada as well as hunting all over the United States.  He was an exceptional Dad, a great story-teller, had a positive outlook, a smart wit and a twinkle in his eye.

Jack is survived by his children, Shannon Lavin, Fargo, Wayne (Char) Welu, Fargo, Jackie (Dave) Cox, Rogers, MN, John (Tina) Welu, Cottage Grove, MN; grandchildren, Katrina, Gunnar, Justin, and Natalie; and great-granddaughter, Ava.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wives, Judy and Bernie, and brother, Joe.

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  1. black butte ranch oregonWe are very sorry to hear of Jack’s death. We hadn’t seen him in many years but his memory will live within us. Godspeed, Jack.

  2. Hacienda Heights CAWhen I saw Jack less than two weeks ago, the last thing he said to me was “I love you Dick.” He was my friend for over 60 yours, and I returned that love in spades. Goodby my dear friend – till we meet again. May God touch your children with his love during this difficult time, and forever more.

  3. West Fargo North Dakota
    So sorry for your lose Shannon. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  4. White South Dakota
    former classmate from BHs, Jack and I were in a lot of classes together and his name starting with a L and mine with an M, so we sat side by side. Always enjoyed Jack and I am sorry to hear of his passing. Joanne MurphybE

  5. Grover Beach CAI will dearly miss my friend of almost 70 years! I am sad that I will not be able to attend the services, but will be there in spirit and prayer. To his children I send my heartfelt sympathy in the loss of their Dad, he loved all of you dearly! He lived a complete life, accomplished much, and was loved by many, who will miss his wit and humor, and hearty laugh! His most prideful thing in his life were his children, and his family. RIP dear Jack!
    Duane Stuerman

  6. Shannon – Please accept my most heartfelt sympathy for your loss… my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. You and your father had such a special relationship. May these precious memories of love shared with your father comfort you now and in the days ahead.

  7. fargo ND
    To family members my condolences of the passing of your Dad.It was great working with Jack at Fargo National Bank.He had a great love for fishing and wonderful sense of humor.

  8. Fargo ND
    We will miss our friend and neighbor. We had no idea he was so ill. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go to his family during this most difficult time. Rest in peace, Jack, in the arms of Our Saviour.

  9. Shannon, I am truly sorry to hear about your dads passing. I know it’s a very difficult time and wish you the best in getting through it all.


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