Denis Register

Denis Clare Register, 79, of Fargo, ND passed away under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND on Friday, November 11, 2022. 

Denis was born on April 27, 1943 in Bismarck, ND to Clare and Elizabeth (Monroe) Register.  He spent his early childhood in Bismarck, moving to Riverdale, ND and then graduating high school in Rapid City, SD.  He received his undergraduate degree from the University of South Dakota.  Denis held a number of positions throughout his career: Radio Announcer, Car Salesman, Parole/Probation Officer, Bureau of Land Management Field Work, before finding his passion with Vocational Rehabilitation/Southeast Human Services and P.T.-O.T. Associates in Fargo, ND.  He spent the majority of his career advocating for individuals with disabilities to help them meet their full potential. 

At the age of 7, Denis diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.  This did not stop him from living a full life even though his vision was severely affected later in life.  Throughout his entire life, he was an inspiration to anyone with Diabetes. Because of his diligence, Denis was honored by Eli Lily for his successful 50+ year management of his condition.  Along with staying healthy, his goal was to help anyone with the condition to lead a healthy, fulfilling life along with educating care givers on the best treatment.

Denis had a love of radio and music, especially Jazz.  Anytime you visited him at home or in the hospital/rehab, KDSU would be playing.  He enjoyed live music, attending many concerts in his lifetime including the Stockholm Jazz Festival.  One of his last outings was to a weekend of live Jazz in the Fargo area with his family.

Photography was a lifetime passion for Denis.  He would frequently be found with his camera in hand, even when he started losing his vision.  He loved taking pictures of family, friends and nature.  His prized rose bushes were often subjects of his photos, even featured in a large print in his house.  One of his main inspirations was Ansel Adams, from who he had several posters. Denis anxiously awaited his annual Ansel Adams calendar each Christmas.

He had an innate way of making lifetime connections with everyone he met.  The first time he met you, he would quickly get to know your life story and would remember that the next time you met.  He had a way of making people feel comfortable in having any discussion with him. 

Denis was preceded in death by his parents and son, Darrin Register.

Denis is survived by his brother, Winston (Snookie) Register, Grand Forks, ND; daughter, Erika (Shane) Serquina, Erie, ND; granddaughter, Lili Serquina (Daniel Sanchez), Fargo, ND; nieces, Carmen (Ralph) Williams, Paula Anderson, and Pam Register, nephew Kevin (Trish); special friend, Elizabeth McAllister; and many close friends and family.  

In lieu of flowers and cards, please consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Associate or Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 27, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 2:00 p.m., at Wright Funeral Home in Moorhead.