Gerald Volk

Gerald Volk, 77, Mapleton, ND died on Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021 at Sanford Health on Broadway in Fargo, ND.

Gerald Jerome Volk was born June 29, 1944, the 8th child of 17, to parents Joseph and Julia (Schnellbach) Volk. He was raised on the family farm near Karlsruhe, ND, attended country school, and later the school at Drake, ND. With his dad working full time with the railroad, Gerald became responsible for the day-to-day operation of the farm at a young age,  He also worked at the Drake Creamery and at the Great Northern Railroad depot in Rugby, ND. Gerald met and married the love of his life DeLilah Seefeld on Nov. 26, 1964. They made their home on the farm. Gerald later began his career in construction and the family followed his work living in Bagley, MN, Martin, SD, Fargo and settled in Mapleton, ND in 1970. Gerald worked for Northern Improvement as a bulldozer operator at the gravel pit near Sabin, MN. He then worked for George E. Haggart Construction 34 years, retiring in 2006 due to a work accident. Through his career, he worked on numerous infrastructure projects all across ND.

Gerald’s life passions started with his Faith. He was active at St. Leo’s Parish and with the Knights of Columbus. He worked hard to instill this passion with his kids and grandkids. He also had a stubborn pride which meant he learned how to fix anything so he didn’t have to pay someone else to do it. He was a member of the ND Game and Fish, Western MN Steam Threshers and the American Quarter Horse Association. He spent much of his retirement time working with the City of Mapleton Parks and Recreation. He also enjoyed camping, fishing and travel.

He is survived by the love of his life of 56 years, DeLilah; four children, Kevin (Jodi) Volk, Bismarck, ND,  Kimberly (Brian) Hammer, Detroit Lakes, MN;  Keely Bratholt (Alicia Britton), Fargo, ND, and Kieran Volk of Mapleton, ND; six grandchildren, Cody, Josh and Chelsea, Jared, Karly and Adam; a great grandchild, Farrah; three brothers; nine sisters; and lots of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Chris; three infant siblings and sister Anna Marie.

Visitation:  Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021 from 5 to 7 PM with a rosary at 5 PM and prayer service at 7 PM at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Casselton.

Funeral Mass:  Friday, Oct. 8 at 2 PM at St. Leo’s Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior.

Burial: St. Leo’s Cemetery.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

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