Dennis L. Vatnsdal

A Funeral Service for Dennis L. Vatnsdal of Roseau, MN will be held on Friday, April 15, 2016 at Moe Lutheran Church at 11:00am in Roseau, MN. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2016 from 5-7PM with a prayer service at 7PM at Helgeson Funeral Home in Roseau, MN and also one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held at Moe-Rose Cemetery.

The fourth child of Jonas and Alida (Erickson) Vatnsdal, was born December 30, 1936, in Duxby, MN. He attended grade school in Duxby and Ross and graduated from Roseau High School and Bemidji State University. For 37 years he either served as teacher, principal, or coach in the following: Ponsford, MN (1 year), Salol (12 years), Malung (2 years), and Roseau for 22 years retiring in 1992. He worked summers in various jobs including the REA, Messelt’s, and Stordahl Trucking; and was a substitute school bus driver for 50+ years.

Dennis was a lifelong Roseau Ram fan and especially enjoyed watching his family and grandchildren in their sports and activities.  He coached the Vatnsdal softball team in the early 1980s. 

He was an active member of Moe Lutheran Church where he loved seeing the children and visiting with anyone and everyone.  He took great pride in his Icelandic heritage and was also a strong community supporter.

Dennis was a family man who enjoyed camping and many trips to the cabin at Long Point as well as many trips with his wife and friends. His biggest hobby was visiting and coffee.

Dennis passed away at his home on April 7, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Eldri of 57 years; his sons Brian (Ann) of Fergus Falls, Mark (Lori) of Independence, Scott (Sue) of Roseau, and Cory (Mary) of Roseau; 10 grandchildren: Isaac, Tayler, Sam, Nick, Katie, Ben, Joe, Emma, Stella, and Gus, and one step-grandson, Daniel; sister Joy (Joe) Gust, of Strathcona, brother Ray (Ardy) of Roseau; sister's-in-law, Doris (James) Vatnsdal of Roseau, Launa (Gerald) Vatnsdal in California, and Jean (Doyle) Vatnsdal of Cloquet; and many nieces and nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers James, Gerald, and Doyle. 

 Service Information