Thief River Falls – Richard Allan Kjensrud, of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Richard was born on August 22, 1940, in Mayville, ND, to Ellert Norton Kjensrud and Julia (Groven) Kjensrud. He was baptized at home in Portland, ND, and later confirmed at Bruflat Lutheran Church in Portland.
He attended country school in Portland, ND, graduated from Clearbrook High School in Minnesota, and continued his education at college in Bemidji before completing vocational training in electronics in Thief River Falls.
During vocational school, Richard met the love of his life, Patricia Vatsaas. The couple married on March 25, 1961 at Oak Ridge Lutheran Church near Thief River Falls and made their home in the Twin Cities for 11 years. To this union, three children were born, Karen, Tim and Eric. In 1971, they made their home on a farm in Holt.
Richard dedicated his working life to being a farmer, and served over 30 years with the Minnesota Department of Transportation. He was proud of his strong work ethic and commitment to his community. He was a member of the Teamsters Union, and Thief River Falls Eagles Club.
Faith was an important part of Richard’s life. He was an active member of Nazareth Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council and played a key role in helping build the new church.
Richard enjoyed woodworking and carving, solving puzzles, reading, playing cards and cribbage, camping, hunting, fishing, and driving horses. He and his wife Patricia attended Høst Fest annually for over 30 years, celebrating his Norwegian roots. Above all, Richard treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Vatsaas) Kjensrud; children, Karen (Kurt) Dvergsten, Tim (Andrea) Kjensrud, and Eric (Jennifer) Kjensrud; grandchildren, Duane Erickson, Dustin (Liz) Erickson, Danica (Joe) Marana, Vanessa (Max) Thompson, Kathleen (Sean Paine) Kjensrud, Heather Kjensrud, and Logan (Johanna) Dvergsten; and great‑grandchildren, Merritt, Will, Hallie, and Henley Marana; Rowen, Brooks, and Tate Thompson; Breanna Kjensrud; Portia and Hudson Merck; Hunter Hensrud; Camden and Baby Boy Dvergsten. He is also survived by his sisters, Carol (Bob) Dahl and Christine (Marty) Howes; stepsiblings, Julie (Dick) Kroenig, Gary (Jean) Oen, Jo (Les) Carpenter, and Jan Oen (Don Thompson); sister-in-law, JoAnn (Delray) Offerdahl; and many nieces and nephews.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ellert Kjensrud and Julia Kjensrud Oen; stepfather, Harry Oen; parents-in‑law, Bendick and Bernice Vatsaas; brothers‑in‑law, Bendick Jr. (Lou) Vatsaas, Jerry (Juanita) Vatsaas, and Duane (Pauline) Vatsaas; and sister‑in‑law, Inga (Jim) Kennedy.
Richard will be remembered for his steady presence, skilled hands, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., with the service to celebrate Richard’s life at 2 p.m., on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt, with Russ Steer officiating.
Burial will follow at Holt Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
Richard Kjensrud, 85
