Maj. Steven Vigesaa

Steven Trygve Vigesaa, a dedicated family man, seasoned professional, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, in Breckenridge, MN, surrounded by his beloved family and under the compassionate care of CHI Hospice. Born on December 7, 1948, in Valley City, ND to Trygve and Elsie (Bergstad) Vigesaa, Steve led a life marked by commitment to both his country and his loved ones.

Steve’s journey began at a rural school in Cooperstown, ND, before he graduated from Hillcrest Academy in Fergus Falls, MN. After completing his education, he attended the Highway Patrol Academy and served as a North Dakota Highway Patrolman. Driven by a strong sense of duty, Steve also joined the Army National Guard, where he dedicated 27 years of service and retired with the rank of Major. Following seven years in law enforcement, he pursued a degree in Statistical Engineering from North Dakota State University. Steve’s career led him to 3M (now ComDel formerly Imation), where he not only built a successful career but also met Teri, his loving wife of nearly 34 years. Even after retiring from Imation, Steve remained active in the workforce, taking on a role for John Deere in Fargo.

In tandem with his professional accomplishments, Steven was a man of deep faith. He cherished time spent with his family, he held a deep love for the great outdoors with a passion for hunting and shooting trap, and he loved his time playing the piano and later learning the guitar. Steve also was a proud supporter of the NDSU Bison and the Minnesota Vikings, could quote the Declaration of Independence and if he happened to forget a part, he would pull out his pocket-sized book for reference.

Steven's legacy continues through his loving family. He is survived by his wife, Teri; children, Wade (Marcia), Dustin, and Desi (Shane); all who fondly called him "Papa" and grandchildren, Shaina, Lane, and Cody Walstrom, Andrew, Addisyn, and Aiden Visto. He also leaves behind his cherished brothers, Loren (Nadine) Vigesaa and Dan (Connie) Vigesaa; sister, Becky (Ron) Karkoff; sister-in-law Sylvia Vigesaa, and his loyal fur baby, Rowdi.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Trygve and Elsie Vigesaa; brother, Harold Vigesaa; niece, Laura Vigesaa; sister and brother-in-law, Gene and Karen Johnson; in-laws, Duane and Joyce Anderson; nephews Ben Hoffman and Nathan Johnson, and niece Debra Ann Hagen. 

A visitation will be held on April 5, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Inspiration Lutheran Brethren Church in Breckenridge, Minnesota, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM to honor his life and contributions. Pastor Tim Collins will officiate the service. Burial will take place at Fargo National Cemetery on April 10, 2025, at 1 PM. 

Steven Vigesaa's memory will endure in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him, a testament to a life well-lived, rich in love, service, and joy.