LeeRoy C. Vetsch

LeeRoy’s services will be livestreamed below starting at 10:00 AM Thursday, June 4, 2026.

LeeRoy C. Vetsch, age 85, passed away May 28, 2026, at St. Catherine South. Lee or “Big Lee” as he was more commonly known was born Nov. 18, 1940, to Anton and Mary (Gefroh) Vetsch in Rugby, ND. He grew up in Balta, ND and graduated from High School there in 1959.

In 1963 Lee married Mary Ann Wasche and they had 5 children. In 1968 they moved to Fargowhere Lee built the family home. The marriage didn’t last, and Lee took sole custody of his 5 kids. Although it was hard at times, he provided a stable environment including sending all 5 kids to private school.

A salesman from the start, Big Lee’s personality was much larger than his stature, which helped him succeed in his 20+ year career as a Realtor and Broker. At the same time serving 30+ years as a Fireman and EMT for the Fargo Fire Department. After retiring, he continued his entrepreneurial spirit in the form of his company General Maintenance and following his true passion of futzing in the shop and having sales.

He had many hobbies, including fishing, wood carving, dancing, making homemade sausage and large family meals, and of course visiting with friends and family. He also thoroughly loved lake life and spent as much time as possible there. Later in life he spent many winters in Arizona.

Lee is survived by his children: Darin (Patti) Vetsch, Mariena “Toni” (Bruce) Draeger, Teresa (Dane) Longbella, Jon (Megan) Vetsch and Mary (Aaron) Durkop; grandchildren, Benjamin, Daniel, Jesse (Claire), Ellie (Justin), Ryann, Tatum, Griffin, Austin, and Logan; and great grandchildren, Etta and Bea.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Peter, Jim and Bill; and sister, Irene.

In Lieu of flowers and in memory of Lee, please make donations to HIA Hospice, St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, or 4 Luv of Dog Rescue.