Merle Harry Jegtvig

Merle Jegtvig, Hawley, MN, passed away Sunday, December 30, 2018, at Sanford Hospital surrounded by his family.

Merle Harry Jegtvig was born April 19, 1949 to Harry and Alice (Johnson) Jegtvig in Fargo, ND.  He graduated from Moorhead High School in 1967.  Merle and Loree (Nelson) were married December 13, 1969 in Fargo, ND.  They lived in Sabin, MN before moving to Hawley in 1972.

After working in automotive parts sales, the love of the trucking business and owning a business took over.  Valley Dispatch began in 1979 with two employees operating from a pay phone in TJ’s Truck Stop.  With the help of his partners and dedicated loyal employees, forty years later, Mapleton, ND became the new headquarters for Valley Express, Valley Truck and Trailer, and Valley Tire, with satellite offices in six states.

Not one to rest, Merle’s strong work ethic and love of a challenge led to other projects.  Merle Jegtvig Trucking, F-M Welding and Trailer Repair, Jegtvig Trailer Sales and Car Wash, and Four Winds Apartments were born from his willingness to take risks.

His life of hard work and dedication was all for his love and pride in his family.  Watching his sons’ activities on the playing field or the race track were some of his happiest times.  Seeing them grow into parents to his cherished grandchildren brought great joy.  His watchful eye and advice guided them in interests and pursuits of their own.

Merle will be deeply missed by his wife, Loree; sons, Bryan (Amy), Blake (Beth), Brett (Kara), and his grandchildren, Paige, Jada, Wyatt, Cash, Reed and Judson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Douglas Faus, Jerome, Russell, and Virgil Jegtvig.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 14, 2019, from 3:00-5:00 P.M., followed by the memorial service at 5:00 P.M., at Hawley Lutheran Church.