Daniel Wayne Wenzel

Daniel Wayne Wenzel, 77, Minot, ND, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Trinity Hospital with his loving family at his side.

Dan lived a full and joyful life, even through the years he spent navigating Alzheimer’s. Once known for striking up conversations with just about anyone, Dan grew quieter over time, but his warm smile and sense of humor remained.

He was born on December 18, 1947, in Minot, ND, to Samuel and Vivian (Ehlke) Wenzel. Raised and educated in the Newburg area, Dan graduated from Glenburn High School and later earned his business degree from Minot State College.

Dan had a lifelong love for farming, especially alongside his father. His professional path included roles as an accountant at Trinity Hospital and later with the treasury department at the State Capitol in Bismarck. Dan also worked part-time at Sears delivering appliances, and later as a courtesy driver for Minot Chrysler Center—a job that suited his friendly, social nature.

Dan proudly served in the United States Army, drafted on June 8, 1970. He was stationed in Berlin, Germany, during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged on December 8, 1971.

On June 3, 1972, Dan married Joann Okland in Minot. Together they raised three daughters—Tera, Tawnya, and Trisha—who were the light of his life. Though Dan and Joann later divorced, he remained a devoted father and grandfather, often traveling to Fargo to spend time with his family. His playful spirit and gentle teasing made him a favorite among the kids.

Dan found love again and married Angie Ott on May 30, 2003, after meeting on the dance floor. Together, they shared a love for the family farm, their two horses, and lawn mowing side-by-side on their tractors.

Dancing was one of Dan’s greatest joys, and he continued to dance well into his later years, rarely missing a beat. He also had a deep love for music, which stayed with him until his final day. Dan was known for his sweet tooth, always enjoying coffee and desserts with family and friends. For many years, he was a cherished member of the coffee crew at Schatz Crossroads.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Edgewood Memory Care “Cookies Cottage” in Minot for their loving care and support.

Dan is survived by his wife, Angeline “Angie” Wenzel; daughters, Tera Wenzel, Tawnya (Mark) Follingstad, Trisha (Shaun) Gould; grandchildren, Mason Gould, Jonah Follingstad, Lexi Gould, Henry Follingstad, Grace Follingstad; sisters, Deborah (Larry) O’Connell, Colleen (Russell) Lapp: brother, Kevin (Robyn) Wenzel; nieces and nephews, Keri (Matt) Eversmann, Chad O’Connell, Katie Wenzel, Samantha Lapp, Jesse Lapp; great-niece, Destany Eversmann; grandpups, Boston, Dusty, Chachi; stepchildren, Corrie Ott, Chris (Stephanie) Ott, Shirrell Ott; step-grandchildren, Mara Cox, Mesa Cox, Topher Ott, Cambree Ott; step-great-grandchildren, Myla and Malakai.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, former spouse, Joann Wenzel; grandson, Anthony Wayne Gould; many aunts, uncles, and best friends, Dennis Findlay, Kent Nelsen, and Terry Solbakken.

Funeral: Friday, April 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Bread of Life Church, Minot.

Interment: Private committal service at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Minot.

Visitation: Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.

Prayer Service: Thursday at 7 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.

The service will be livestreamed for the public to view and can be accessed by going to the Bread of Life Lutheran Church Youtube page, www.youtube.com/@BreadofLife-MinotND