Paul Vaagene

Paul Darrel Vaagene, born September 15, 1949, passed away March 14, 2026, at his home in West Fargo, ND at the age of 76. A memorial service will be held March 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM at West Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM. Interment will be at the Fargo National Cemetery following the service with military rights.

Paul was the son of Paul and Kathleen (Hanson) Vaagene. Paul grew up on the family farm south of Hatton, after graduation Paul proudly served in the Army from 1969 to 1971. He received a medal for his marksmanship. He was honorably discharged as an E4.

Paul wed Norine Gayle (Hanson) Vaagene on November 8, 1974, in South Dakota. While living in West Fargo, North Dakota, he provided for his family by driving trucks for Midwest Motor Express and running his own insurance agency for many years.

Paul will be fondly remembered for his gentle patience and a gift of gab. He loved reading, tinkering with his tractors, (especially John Deere), and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren at his Mapleton shop when they were growing up.

In recent years, Paul cared for his wife Norine during her struggle with Alzheimer’s. After Norine passed away in November, Paul was deeply affected. Now, they are reunited with Heidi and the many other members of their family.

Survived by

Children: Nathan Vaagene (spouse: Niki) of West Fargo, ND.

Stepchildren: Matthew Pladson of West Fargo, ND; Eric Pladson of Hatton, ND.

Grandchildren: Amber, Jessica, Connor, Brittany, Kayley, Kaitlynn, Noah, and Avery.

Great-grandchildren: Ayden, Colter, Atticus, and Sylvia.

Siblings: Sister, Rita Bristlin (spouse: Bob) of Detroit Lakes, MN; brother, Gary Vaagene (spouse: Debbie) of Hatton, ND; sister-in-law Joy Vaagene of Hatton, ND.

He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding in death: wife, Norine Gayle Vaagene (2025), his daughter, Heidi (Pladson) Schaeffer (2018), his parents, Paul Vaagene and Kathleen (Hanson) Vaagene, as well as his siblings Janice Amundson, Gene Vaagene, John Vaagene, and Larry Vaagene.

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