Wayne M. Zitzow

Wayne Melvin Zitzow, age 78, died peacefully at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND March 24th, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Wayne was born in Thief River Falls on December 14th, 1946. Wayne was the first-born son of Melvin and Beatrice Zitzow. He went to grade school and then attended college before moving to East Grand Forks for work at a small print shop. He there, one day set eyes on the love of his life and future bride Ruthie Sondrol, whom he married on March 1st, 1975. Through all their ups and downs they just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 1st, opening day of Dairy Queen. This tradition carried on every year even in negative degree weather where he would stand in line for Ruthie’s hot fudge sundae for sometimes an hour or longer.

The couple moved to Moorhead building their forever home in 1982 and raised their two children Chad and Tanya. Wayne spent many years as a printer, but didn’t find his true passion for work until he was 61 years old when he started at CCRI. He gave his days to his love of taking care of others. In that, he met one of his best friends. Wayne loved to go fishing/ trap shooting and enjoyed the natural beauty of life like North Shore in Duluth MN. He always kept himself busy with little projects from building bird houses,cooking and his latest fondness has been creating walking sticks. But, on a regular day his passion was always his faith, his devotion to his love Ruthie, two children and loving grandchildren.

Wayne is survived by his wife Ruthie, his two children, Chad (Nikki) Zitzow of West Fargo ND, Tanya (Jonny) Pollock of Moorhead MN. He is also survived by his grandchildren Matthew, Maci Jo, Lakija, Tatyana and Izzy, and their precious puppy Kobi. As well as his brother Darryl (Thea) Zitzow along with many nephews, a niece and many cousins.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Beatrice, and his brother Rocky Zitzow.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., with visitation from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M., at Trinity Lutheran Church, Moorhead, MN.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to CCRI in Moorhead or Trinity Lutheran Church.