Larry Wischnak

Larry Frederick Wischnak, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2024, at 73. Larry was born on January 17, 1951, to Jesse and Lillian (Priem) Wischnak in Detroit Lakes, MN, and was raised on their family farm in Vergas, MN. He graduated from Perham High School in 1969 and, shortly after, enlisted in the Army National Guard, where he proudly served for over 21 years until his retirement.

Larry's devotion to his family was unwavering. He married Karen Goodrich on May 18, 1972, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes, MN. They made their home in Detroit Lakes, MN, where they raised their four daughters. Larry worked his entire career in road construction, holding the position of Asphalt Foreman. He was known for his unwavering work ethic, integrity, and quick wit.

Larry was a faithful Minnesota sports enthusiast. He found joy in race car driving and never missed an episode of Jeopardy. Larry had a particular love for Velveeta cheese, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and home-cooked meals. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, tinkering, and WWII history. His humor and tender-hearted demeanor endeared him to everyone he met, leaving a memorable impression on those around him.

Larry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Karen, of Moorhead, MN; their four children, Lynn (Steve) Nelson of Moorhead, MN; Kimberly (Zac) Johnson of Moorhead, MN; Nichole (Josh) Lehn of West Fargo, ND; and Kristi (Bob) Bartelt of Moorhead, MN; and six grandchildren, who were his pride and joy: Morgan Johnson, Becca Johnson, Brady Bartelt, Alexis Nelson, Hana Lehn, and Sadie Bartelt. He is also survived by two sisters, Marilyn (Dennis) Zitzow of Perham, MN, Donna Ebeling of Perham, MN, and one brother, Gene (Audrey) Wischnak of Vergas, MN. Larry was predeceased in death by his daughter Rachel Wischnak, his parents Jesse and Lillian Wischnak, and his brothers Allen Wischnak and Glen Wischnak.

A funeral service will be held on July 12, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Moorhead, MN, followed by a gathering at the American Legion in Moorhead, MN. Interment will take place Friday, July 19, 2024, at 1:00 P.M., at Fargo National Cemetery, Harwood, ND.

Larry’s warmth, humor, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.