Michael "Mike" Daffinrud

Mike Daffinrud, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 66 on July 25, 2025.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 31, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Eastgate Funeral Service, 2302 E Divide Ave, Bismarck. 

A memorial service will take place Friday, August 1, at 11:00 AM at Zion Lutheran Church, 413 E Ave D, Bismarck.

Mike was born on March 21, 1959, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Dan and Rita Daffinrud. He was the third of five siblings, growing up alongside brothers Terry and Tom, sister Sue, and younger brother Steve. After his father’s passing during Mike’s childhood, the family relocated to Bismarck to be closer to relatives.

He attended Cathedral Grade School through fifth grade, then lived in Dickinson with his beloved grandmother, Janet, before returning to Bismarck. Mike graduated from St. Mary’s Central High School in 1977, where he excelled in football and was named to the All-Western Dakota Association team.

On November 5, 1982, Mike married his best friend and the love of his life, Renee. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. In their early years, their home was a lively gathering place for nieces and nephews, and they treasured time on the river and cheering on Mike’s beloved Kansas City Chiefs — often side by side at Arrowhead Stadium.

Together, Mike and Renee raised two children, Dan and Kayla, whom Mike adored. A devoted and enthusiastic father, he coached both children in sports — baseball with Dan and basketball with Kayla — taking particular pride when Dan’s baseball team received a sportsmanship award at the midwest regional tournament.

In February 2025, Mike became a grandfather with the birth of his grandson Micah, a role he embraced with joy and pride.

Mike was deeply committed to his family and treasured time spent together. He welcomed extended family into their home and hosted summer pool gatherings whenever loved ones returned to Bismarck. He often reminded others, “Do not wish your life away,” a reflection of how fully he embraced each moment with those he loved. After his children moved away, Mike and Renee enjoyed weekend golf outings and continued their shared faith through Zion Lutheran Church, where Mike served on the Board of Stewardship and attended services regularly via livestream.

Professionally, Mike dedicated much of his career to financial services, helping many clients plan for their future with care and integrity.

Mike is survived by his wife and soulmate of 42 years, Renee; his son Dan and daughter-in-law Nina of Peoria, AZ; his daughter Kayla of Los Angeles, CA; his siblings Sue, Terry, and Steve; his grandson Micah; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Rita, father-in-law Duane, mother-in-law Delilah, and his brother Tom.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.