AlRoy O. Aune

7-1-47 – 2-20-26

AlRoy Ortis Aune, 78, Fertile, MN, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Sanford Health Center in Fargo, ND surrounded by family.

AlRoy was born on July 1, 1947 to Melvin and Odella (Lien) Aune in Ada, MN. Al spent most of his childhood in Gary before moving with his family to Aurora while his dad worked in the mines; the family eventually made their way back to the family farm in Gary, MN.

In 1965 Al married Linda Tranholt and together they had three daughters, in 1980 Al married Judith Peden and welcomed two more daughters. AlRoy and Rita were married in 1999; Rita brought two children into the family, and together they welcomed their three sons and one daughter.

AlRoy worked as a slot attendant at the Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen, MN for more than twenty years, retiring after the pandemic. During his time there, he made many friends and acquaintances. He was known for his big heart and his constant willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His warm, easygoing personality made people feel at home around him, and anyone who knew him knew he was always quick with a joke or a sharp, playful comeback. He brought kindness and laughter into every room he walked into. AlRoy loved being outdoors, whether he was working on vehicles, out fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air. He cherished every moment spent with his family and grandchildren, and he never missed his weekly trips to the casino.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Rita, Fertile MN; his 11 children, Julie Oliver, Alexandria, MN, Jackie Gable, Bloomington, MN, Norgean (Sean) Rodenborn, Parkers Prairie, MN, Cheyanna (Josh) Heuckendorf, Coon Rapids, MN, Jessica Aune (Terrance Hill), Jordan, MN, Glenda (Mike) Fineday, Detroit Lakes, MN, Jeremiah Keller (Samantha Roberts), Clifford, ND, Ryan Aune (Nicole Pederson), Fertile, MN, Roy Aune (Ashley Stone), Naytawaush, MN, Ray Aune (Brandee Lane), Fertile, MN, and Samantha (Derrick) Garrison, Gary, MN, bonus children, Chris (Red) Awender (Dani Fritsch), Fertile, MN; 48 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 4 brothers-in-law, Blaine Freeman, Dwaine Olson, David Olson, and James Mueller; one aunt; and various cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Melivn; mother, Odella; mother-in-law, Beverly; father-in-law, Dwaine; brother-in-law, Daniel (Boone); sister-in-law, Neva; one grandson, Owen; and various aunts, uncles and cousins.

AlRoy's family will be holding a Celebration of Life Service at 4:00 PM, Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Gary Lutheran Church, Gary, MN, with a dinner to follow. Visitation will take place one hour before the service at the church.

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