Milton O. Westgard, 91, of Bismarck, went to be with the Lord on November 16, 2025.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, November 21, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2300 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck.

Visitation will be held from 5:00–6:00 pm, with a prayer service and sharing of memories beginning at 6:00 pm, Thursday, November 20, at Eastgate Funeral Service, 2302 E Divide Ave, Bismarck. Milton’s memorial service and prayer service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.

Burial will take place at 2:00 pm, Friday, November 21, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan.

Milt was born on June 25, 1934, in Rugby, ND, to Victor and Alma (Ekness) Westgard. He grew up on a farm outside of Rugby and graduated from Rugby High School in 1953.

Milt married his high school sweetheart, Evelyn Ellingson, on February 17, 1954. To this union they welcomed three beautiful children: Marcia, Mark, and Kristie. Their family continued to grow with 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. They enjoyed traveling around the United States, and even to Europe, for family vacations and to visit their children.

He served in the National Guard for seven years.

Milt worked many years in sales—flooring, furniture, and appliances. After retirement, he drove for Sanford for six years, always glad to be of service to those who needed a helping hand. Even after that, he continued to stay busy at the nursing home.

Woodworking was Milt’s passion. He built countless pieces for his family, the church, and others. He helped construct a living room and laundry room, and he renovated the basement in his children’s and grandchildren’s homes. When Milt was in his shop, he was calm, content, and truly happy.

He loved family gatherings but preferred not to be the center of attention. Milt enjoyed listening, watching, and simply being present in conversation, even if he didn’t say much. He was sentimental, soft-hearted, and gentle by nature—never a fighter.

Milton is survived by his wife of 71 years, Evelyn; children, Marcia (Len) Peterson of Bismarck, Mark (Sue) Westgard of Mandan, and Kristie (Tim) Butler of Hattiesburg, MS; grandchildren, Scott (Lisa) Peterson, Vicky (Brandon) Vetter, Eric (Jessica) Peterson, Albert (Katie) Butler, Esther (Jakob) Utsey, Jonathan (Hannah) Butler, Mary (Seth) Zander, Tallie Butler, Michaela Butler, Hope Butler and 13 great-grandchildren. Also, an honorary grandson, Andre (Monica) Martin, and their two daughters. His surviving siblings are: Lester (Pat) of Fargo, Viola of Bismarck, and Dennis (Sue) of Mitchell, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Duane and Stanley; and two granddaughters, Amy and Faith.