18 Feb Donald “Don” Magstadt

Donald (Don) D. Magstadt, 66, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on February 16, 2020. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Community Church, 111 E. Wachter Ave. There will be a time of gathering one hour prior to the beginning of the service.

Don was born in Mandan, ND on July 19,1953, son of Reuben and Viola (Straub) Magstadt. He was raised and educated in Bismarck, graduating from Bismarck High School in 1973. Don worked at the ND State Penitentiary for almost 30 years, retiring in 2012.

His family and friends were first and foremost in his life. Don was an outstanding athlete and it meant the world to him, that he was fortunate enough to coach his boys in the various sports they participated in. He took it all in and was so proud of them. Don was always smiling and looking for the best in everything and everybody. He was a hard worker, but despite that, he made sure that he fulfilled his passions which included camping, fishing the Missouri River, Lake Sakakawea and Alaska, hunting across North Dakota and Colorado, scuba diving in various tropical island locations, and spending time with his family and friends. He was the epitome of a life well lived, commanding the values of trust, honesty, and respect.

Don is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary; his sons, Donnie (Barbi), Christopher, and Michael; father and mother, Reuben and Viola Magstadt; sister, Shirley (Monte) Preabt; brothers, Valdie (Elaine), Myron (Pam), Curt (Cindy); sisters-in-law Roby Bybee, Dawn Wallum; grandchildren, Sunny, Cullen, Sawyer; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

The family would like to thank the entire Sanford Health team in Fargo and Bismarck, the Bismarck Cancer Center, and Sanford Hospice for their kind and compassionate care throughout his battle with cancer, and all the friends and family that offered their kind thoughts and prayers.

In honor of Don’s memory, donations may be sent to BHA (BackCountry Hunters & Anglers).  They are the voice for our wild public lands, waters & wildlife.  Website address is Backcountryhunters.org or you may write a check to Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and mail to 725 W. Alder Suite 11, Missoula, MT 59802.

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Mahatma Gandhi