Thomas Viland

Thomas Amos Viland, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 30, 2026.

Tom was born on October 10, 1955 in Veblen, South Dakota, to Viar and Alma Viland. He graduated from Lidgerwood High School in Lidgerwood, North Dakota, in 1973. From an early age, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and faith in God, principles that guided him throughout his life and were evident in everything he did.

In 1976, Tom married the love of his life, Susan at Island Park in Fargo, North Dakota. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and unwavering commitment to one another. They were blessed with two children, Brook (Kevin) Spaulding and Matthew (Ashley) Viland, who were a source of great pride and joy throughout his life.

In 1981, Tom founded Viland Construction, a company dedicated to residential and commercial construction. Through his craftsmanship and commitment to excellence, he helped shaped countless homes throughout the Fargo and West Fargo communities. While he was proud of every project he completed, two held a special place in his heart: the construction of Eagle Valley Evangelical Free Church in Walcott, ND and his lake home in Pelican Rapids, MN. One represented his dedication to building a place where people could gather to worship God; the other became a place where his family could gather, create memories, and spend time together. Tom continued his work at Viland Construction until his passing.

Tom’s faith was the foundation of his life. Throughout his adult life, Tom was a dedicated member of three churches. Metropolitan Baptist Church (Fargo), Eagle Valley Evangelical Free Church (Walcott), and Lake Eunice Evangelical Free Church (Detroit Lakes). He loved serving the Lord and was involved wherever he was needed. Whether through his work, his service, or his relationships, Tom sought to live out Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”

Family was the center of Tom’s earthly life. His greatest joy was spending time with those he loved. He faithfully cheered on his grandchildren from the stands at basketball games, football fields, baseball diamonds, volleyball courts, and dance recitals. He rarely missed an opportunity to show up and support them. More than any gift he could have given, his consistent presence, encouragement, and love left a lasting impact on their lives.

A close second to watching his grandchildren was gathering family at the lake. Tom intentionally built a home large enough to welcome everyone because he cherished having his family around. Some of his happiest moments were spent around the table playing games, enjoying a meal, or working side-by-side with his son. He understood the blessing of togetherness and created a place where those memories could flourish for generations.

Tom’s laugh was unforgettable. Distinctive and full of life, it could easily be heard across a crowded room and never failed to make others smile. Looking through family photos, it seemed there was always a picture of him sharing a joke, making a funny face, or laughing wholeheartedly. The sparkle in his eyes and his joyful spirit brought light to every gathering and every life he touched.

Thomas is survived by his wife Susan (Ista); his children, Brook (Kevin) Spaulding of Fargo, and Matthew (Ashley) Viland of Fargo, his grandchildren Jordyn (Isaac) Lillehaug, Addyson, Delaney, and Zayne Spaulding, Mason Fowler, Thomas and Miley Viland; his great-grandchildren Emersyn and Camryn Lillehaug, all of Fargo, siblings David (Donna) Viland of Eden Prairie, Reuben (Beth) Viland of Fargo, Betty (Eldon) Hermunslie of Wahpeton, ND Ruth Howard of Hettinger, ND, Tim (Evonne) Viland of Wahpeton, ND; along with many nieces and nephews, extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss his steady presence, generous heart, and unwavering love.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Rebecca Viland, his uncle Arnold Viland, and his brother-in-law Dennis Howard.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3rd, at Calvary on Village Green in Moorhead, Minnesota from 5-6:30pm with Prayer Service at 6:30pm. Visitation will continue on Friday, September 4, at 1:00pm with the funeral service beginning at 2:00pm.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort knowing that he is rejoicing in Heaven. Grandpa Tom will be deeply missed in life’s milestones and celebrations, but even more in the ordinary moments: the conversations, the laughter (oh how we will miss his laughter), the encouragement, and the strength he brought to those around him. His legacy of faith, hard work, generosity, and devotion to family will continue to live on in all who knew and love him.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28