Mark Hjelmstad passed away at his home in Mandan, North Dakota, on June 19, 2026.

Born in Northwood, ND, Mark was a 1970 graduate of Central Valley High School in Buxton, ND and spent his life building friendships and collecting stories across the country. He lived in Dickinson, ND, as well as Texas, Arizona, Southern California, and eventually Mandan.

Known to many as "Uff Da" because of his trademark red suspenders and unmistakably Norwegian personality, Mark had a favorite saying: "Life is Grand." And that is how he approached life.

Mark retired from Riverwood RV in 2022 after many years of dedicated work. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed the outdoors so much that he often joked that fishing had nothing to do with catching fish. He was also known to test his luck on pull tabs and keno, often with a Coors Light in hand and a grin on his face.

Mark is survived by his former spouse, Donna McCann; their children: Michael Hjelmstad (Lauralee) of Los Angeles, CA; Anna Roller (Eric) of Albany, OR, and Amy Hertz (Andy) of Bismarck; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

In keeping with Mark's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Those who knew Mark know exactly where he would have wanted everyone to meet. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, raise a glass, and celebrate his life at his favorite spot, Hide-Away in Mandan on Friday, June 26 at 2:00 p.m.