Neil V. Dardis, 84, of Lakota, ND, passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025. Born on December 9, 1940, in Edgeley, ND, he was a devoted husband to Lavon Gail (Lee) Dardis and a loving father to Mike, Mitch, Mark, Tracey, and Shawn.
Growing up on his family homestead in Nortonville, ND, Neil graduated from high school in 1958 and went on to earn a degree in education from Valley City State College and received a Master’s in Administration from UND.
On June 9th,1960 Neil and Lavon were made one in marriage at Holy Spirit Catholic church in Nortonville. They were best friends and you would rarely see them apart in their nearly 65 years of marriage. Neil’s deep commitment to his family was reflected in the countless memorable golf outings and vacations they enjoyed together. He was a man of honesty, kindness, integrity, and generosity, always making time for those he loved.
A passionate educator, Neil devoted his entire career to Lakota Public Schools, where he made a profound impact on countless students and staff. He believed in the power of teaching, but also the power of coaching—both basketball and golf—instilling discipline, teamwork, and leadership in all of his athletes. His dedication to coaching was just as important as his teaching, and his influence extended far beyond the classroom. Neil’s love for the game was evident even in his reflections on the back to back state tournament appearances, a memory he spoke of just months ago. When he was nominated as Basketball Coach of the Year. His contributions to both education and athletics will always be remembered and cherished. He was a “life” coach to so many more.
Neil and Lavon also owned the hardware store in Lakota for many years and he was involved in the community by serving on the numerous councils and boards, including City Council, Library & Church boards. He was also involved in the redesign of the Lakota Golf Course. He was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.
Preceded in death by his parents, Phyllis (Synoground) and Francis Dardis.
Neil is survived by his wife Lavon, children Micheal (Beth) Dardis, Mitch (Brooke) Dardis, Mark (Cindy) Dardis, Tracey (Wayne) Reichling, and Shawn Dardis. He also leaves behind siblings Gene (Patt) Dardis, Alita (Ray) Zink, and Jerome (Lisa) Dardis, as well as 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandson, along with many nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 30, 2025 from 5-7 p.m., with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Lakota, ND (410 Main St, Lakota, ND 58344). Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 10:30 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be at The Lakota Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lakota City Library and/or the Lakota Ambulance.
We take comfort in knowing that Dad’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
Arrangements made with Aaker Funeral Home, Lakota.