Wade E. Digerness, age 71, of Moorhead, MN, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2026, at his home under the care of HIA Hospice and the staff of Connections.

Wade Eric Digerness, a man of quiet faith and resilience, entered this world on February 7, 1955, in Fargo, ND, born to Harris and Luella Digerness. His spiritual journey began with his baptism at Sundal Lutheran Church in rural Gary, MN, and was further nurtured through his confirmation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lansing, MI.

Wade’s early years were spent in Holt, Michigan, where he attended the Holt Public School system from elementary through graduation. Eager to expand his horizons, he later attended Lansing Community College, earning a two-year certificate of excellence in Labor Relations and Marketing. During his youth, Wade was also a proud member of the Boy Scouts, where he developed a lasting appreciation for community and service.

Alongside his father, Wade spent many years as a dedicated volunteer at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. His professional path was diverse and industrious; in Michigan, he worked on the set-up crew for the local convention center and held various roles within the Lansing restaurant scene. After moving to Cape Coral, FL, with his parents in 1984, Wade continued his hard work as a groundskeeper and at a local convenience store.

Wade found great solace and joy in the written word. Whether reading independently or listening to the Bible, he cherished the stories and lessons of history, with a particular fascination for the events of World War II. His passion for media was evident in his extensive collection of books, CDs, cassette tapes, and DVDs—a library of the things he loved most.

Known for being clever, artistic, and creative, Wade had a unique way of looking at the world. He taught those around him to appreciate the beauty in simplicity—whether it was the joy of a perfect milkshake, the sweet comfort of a candy bar or the peacefulness he enjoyed while listening to relaxing music.

While Wade faced significant mental and physical health challenges with remarkable strength, he was never alone in his journey. He was blessed to live with his parents for many years, benefiting from their love and support. In his later years, he was surrounded by a community of care, receiving exceptional kindness from the staff at Connections Group Home, his guardian Keith Gohdes, and his many devoted cousins.

Wade’s life was a testament to the power of a gentle spirit and the importance of family and faith. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness and the quiet dignity with which he lived his life.

Wade is preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; aunts, Sylvia Gohdes and Diana Olson; and Uncle Donald Eid.

He is survived by his guardian/cousin Keith (Mary) Gohdes, Mapleton, ND, and cousins: Kathleen Gohdes, Pelican Rapids, MN, Melanie Fransen, Shorewood, MN, Rev. Stephen (Heidi) Gohdes, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Denise (Joe) Huebsch, St. Cloud, MN, and Michelle (Todd) Christiansen, Sartell, MN; and many more cousins and second cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Sundal Lutheran Cemetery, rural Gary, MN.