Wayne Lyle Nygard was born in Grafton, ND on December 31, 1950 to Johnny and Myrtle Stella (Skrogstad) Nygard. Wayne attended Tiber School District No. 77 for 5 years, then transferred to Edinburg Public School, where he graduated. Wayne proudly served his country in the Air Force for 4 years. He worked as a missile electrician on the guidance system for the Hound Dog missile. Wayne was grave digger for 26 years and hobby farmer over 40 years. At age 50, he began working for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans as a financial representative, where he thoroughly enjoyed helping others.
Wayne met the love of his life, Elin Jerstad, at a Bible study picnic in Cavalier. He knew quickly Elin was the one, but she took some convincing. They were married on March 7th, 1981 and recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.
Wayne was a faithful servant of the Lord: teaching Sunday school, serving though pulpit fill, sitting on the church council, leading others to faith in Jesus, and helping those in need. Adherence to the scriptures was very important pertaining to every aspect of life. He boldly shared his faith.
Wayne had a deep passion for the great outdoors. Gardening, berry-picking, hunting, and raising farm critters brought him much joy. He was a dynamic storyteller and historical reference. Wayne loved learning and teaching. He was active in his community in multiple ways, including 4-H, school field trips, and community service projects. Wayne took pride in his Norwegian heritage, promoting it through Sons of Norway, lyceums at area schools, and carrying out family and holiday traditions. He was known for his cookies, breads, and pies, which he loved to share with others.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Elin, daughter Anne Kristine (Jack) Hanks, son Jon Nygard, and daughter Tina (Scott) Stockdill, granddaughter Eliana Hanks, sister Joyce Nygard, brother Rodney (Jan) Nygard, sister-in-law Adriana Nygard, many nieces and nephews, as well as honorary daughter Betty Hurst, and honorary grandsons Jason Hurst, Daniel Hurst, Cody (Mariah) Ellis, and Xavier Ellis. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and brother Clinton Nygard.
Funeral services will be Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 1:00 PM at Grace Free Lutheran Church of Edinburg, ND. Military rites will be provided by the Edinburg American Legion and the U. S. Air Force Honor Guard. Inurnment will be at Odalen Lutheran Cemetery. The service will be live streamed on the Tollefson Funeral Home, Inc. facebook page. A Video of the service will be posted to the website following the funeral service.