Merle Bakkegard
December 29, 1945 ~ May 1, 2018
Merle Dean Bakkegard, 72, Fargo, ND passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Rosewood on Broadway. He was born December 29, 1945 in Fullerton, ND to Iver and Lilie (Ulmer) Bakkegard. He grew up in Fullerton where he graduated from high school.
Following graduation, Merle was drafted into the Army. He served in Vietnam from 1965 until 1967 when he was honorably discharged and returned to North Dakota.
In 1973, Merle began his career at the US Postal Service where he worked until his retirement in 2002.
On May 31, 1975 he was united in marriage to Karen Welk in Wishek, ND. They met at the Empire Tavern where they both worked. The couple made their home in Fargo where they raised their two sons.
Duffy’s was his home away from home. Merle enjoyed golfing and going to the casino, and especially loved the slot machines. Upon retirement, he liked to keep himself busy taking care of not just his lawn, but his neighbors’ as well. Merle was a regular at Lowe’s and Menard’s.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Karen; sons, Jason “Soupy” and Travis “Gooch” Bakkegard; sister, Dolly Hample; and brothers, Iver, Ken, and Bob Bakkegard; and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Doris Anderson.
There will be a memorial service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center, Fargo with a visitation one hour prior.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the New Life Center.
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Rest In Peace Merle …. you will be greatly missed. May your family find joy in the memories ….
Sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers.
My thoughts are with you all. Rest in peace Merle. I will miss your laughter and smile.
Merle was a good unionist, and a good man. He had a delightful sense of humor. I am proud to have known him. May his family be consoled at this time, and may Merle rest in eternal peace.
So very sad to read of Merle’s passing. I pray you find strength in Jesus. Relish the memories. You’re in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs from Jane & Dave Fick
Karen and family
So sorry for your loss. – I remember your wedding day very well. Henry taught me how to dance. 🙂 Merle was an inspiration. Florence wants me to say hi, and sends her blessings and prayers. Peace to you all.
Uncle Merle, we will always remember your sense of humor and good cheer. You were a delightful presence. May peace be with you.
Sincerest condolences to Karen, Jason, and Travis.
Faye and I are so blessed to have been able to get to know the family. God bless.
We are so sorry to hear about Merle, we enjoyed knowing and visiting with him all these years,
cherish his memory, we will be out of state so cant attend the service, We will keep his family in thoughts and prayers. God Bless Jo and Vic
Karen and family: So many wonderful memories of Merle …,eternal peace is his.
Shirtless Merle ….your enthusiasm for live was contagious.
Tammy
Rest in peace Uncle Merle.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Karen, Jason, and Travis.
Karen and family, my deepest condolences for the loss of Merle. May he Rest In Peace and may you find comfort in the memories. He was such an asset to all who lived on 16th Avenue and beyond. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sending prayers for comfort and peace -Matt & Amy Hill
Sending loving energy and Our Deepest Sympathies to Karen and family during this Time of grief and healing ..
I am sorry to hear about Merle. Be assured of my prayers.
Karen, so sorry to hear of Merle’s passing. We were in the Cities over the weekend so unable to attend the service. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
So sorry about Merle’s passing. I didn’t realize it was him until Arlene posted a picture in front of Duffy’s.
Karen, Jason, and Travis,
I’m so sorry to hear about Merle’s passing!! I remember spending time with all of you throughout high school when Jason and I were causing mischief! It was great seeing the video of all of you! Thoughts and prayers with all of you!
(763.228.6399)
Karen and boys,
Tamara told me about Merle’s passing. I was so surprised. I have fond memories of him when we stopped in at your house. We’re so very sorry for your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. When we get to Fargo we’ll make an effort to come see you.
Sincerest Sympathies,
Glenda and Vern Stern