Margaret E. Sagen

Margaret Ethel Sagen, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Sanford Hospital, Fargo, surrounded by her loving family holding her hand. She was 94 years old, born on May 31, 1931, in the small town of Rolette, ND to Irving and Francis (Fox) Owens.

Maragaret grew up on a family farm in Brinsmade, ND where she was baptized at Methodist Church, Churches Ferry, ND. She grew up with her siblings, Alice, Forest, Fred, Gordon, and Cecile, and graduated from Leeds High School.

On June 24, 1950, she married her true love, Garland Sagen. They lived in Lakota, ND prior to moving to Hillsboro, ND, Grand Forks, ND, Hazen, ND, and later retired in Devils Lake, ND. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Judy Sagen-Dzul (Sandy Dzul), Rodney Sagen (Trudy Sagen), and Kenneth Sagen (Laura Sagen). Their nearly 75-year marriage was a beautiful testament to love and partnership. Margaret’s legacy will continue to thrive through her grandchildren and great grandchildren – Noah Miller (Mason), Tahirih Coleman (Sydney, Ashton) Miranda Jangula (Isabella, Gabriel, Thomas), Erin Cox (Liam, Jude, Luka).

Margaret’s life can be defined by her service to the community and joy of being a homemaker. She was an active member of the Lutheran church and the church auxiliary activities. In addition, she volunteered with multiple charities, the hospital gift shop, Sons of Norway, Den Mother for Cub Scouts, to name a few. Margaret also worked as a bookkeeper for the elevator in Hillsboro, and later as a librarian at South Junior High School in Grand Forks.

Margaret was someone you could truly count on. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, baking, gardening, playing cards, and dancing with her husband, Garland. She always greeted friends and family with a smile that said, “you are important to me.” Many of her days were spent hosting guests, and the laughs shared will never be forgotten. Her strong will, humility, and a sense of humor made her a truly unforgettable person.

Margaret is survived by her two sons, Rodney and Kenneth Sagen, and her beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Garland Sagen; daughter Judy Sagen-Dzul; parents, and siblings.

A memorial service will take place in the Spring of 2026, with burial for Margaret and Garland taking place at the family plot at Churches Ferry Cemetery, where they will be buried together forever as they wished.

Margret will be deeply missed but fondly remembered; her spirit will continue to light up our lives.