Michael Fridgen

 Michael Fridgen

Michael (Mike) Fridgen, 71, of Dilworth, MN, passed away while surrounded by loved ones on December 16, 2020, from complications related to COVID-19.

Michael was born August 12, 1949, in Fargo, ND, to Isadore “Buck” and Jeannette (Johnk) Fridgen. He grew up in Sabin, MN, and graduated from Moorhead High School in 1967.

Following high school, Mike burned multiple sets of tires off a 1967 Chevy Chevelle SS, while attending Moorhead State University.  He married Carol Welle in May 1971, and they were blessed with two children, Patrick and Stephanie.

Mike worked in various areas of construction and home building in the 1970s.  In the early 1980s, he started working in the water well drilling industry – becoming part owner of M&C Well Drilling in 1986.  Mike later transitioned into the well drilling supply business where he worked in sales for Bartley Lindsay, Preferred Pump, and Goodin Company for many years.

While growing up and living in Sabin, Mike spent many years playing fastpitch softball for the Sabin Sapphires – where traveling to games in other small towns with friends and family was always a favorite.  Mike loved waterfowl and deer hunting in the fall, and fishing on lakes around the Nevis, MN, area where he lived on Spider Lake until 2007.  He was also a lifelong Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan, and tried to watch every game – no matter how bad the season.

Mike was very proud of his grandchildren, and would attend t-ball, baseball, hockey, and volleyball games whenever he had the chance.  He was also an amazing cook and loved to share a meal and a game of pinochle with family and friends.  Most of all, Mike was a kind soul, with a big heart, and an awesome sense of humor.

Mike is survived by his son, Patrick (Kristen) Fridgen, Bismarck, ND; daughter, Stephanie (Matthew) Albert, Moorhead, MN; grandson, Logan Fridgen, Bismarck, ND; granddaughter, Macy Fridgen, Bismarck, ND; grandson, Mason Albert, Moorhead, MN; and granddaughter, Hadley, Moorhead, MN.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mike’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the team of doctors and nurses who cared for him during his stay at Sanford Hospital in Fargo.  To all of them – know that your compassion and tireless efforts make a huge difference for your patients and their families every day.  You truly are heroes.

A visitation will be held Thursday, June 3, 2021, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 2:00 p.m., in Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN. A livestream of the service will be available for those who cannot attend.