Charles Shortridge

Charles Shortridge, 93, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away on May 6, 2025, in Fargo. He was born on September 8, 1931, in Calvin, ND. Charles lived a life marked by service, faith, and dedication to his family and community.

Charles devoted many years of his life to agriculture and farming, cultivating not only the land but also a deep appreciation for hard work and stewardship. In addition to his years in farming, he served as the administrator of Maple Manor Nursing Home in Langdon, ND, for 23 years. In both careers, Charles demonstrated unwavering commitment to care—first for the land and then for people—earning respect from colleagues and community members alike.

A proud Army veteran, Charles carried the values of discipline and service into every aspect of his life. His faith was central to his identity; for over 70 years he was an active member of Gideons International. During that time, he delivered the Gideon message an extraordinary 325 times across North Dakota. He also led numerous Bible study and prayer groups and served as a Lay Speaker for the United Methodist Church. Known as a man of prayer, Charles’s spiritual leadership left a lasting impact on those around him.

Charles was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Erma Shortridge; daughter Colleen (Brad) Kalajainen; sons Gene Shortridge and Kevin Shortridge; sister Lois Schwartz; grandchildren Kaylee (Mitch) DeWitt, Ben (Eric) Kalajainen, and Dylan Shortridge; great-grandchildren Avery DeWitt, Maddox DeWitt, and Marley Shortridge; niece Julie Demirsar; nephew Darin (Kaysie) Schwartz; great niece, Katie (Darius) Andrews; and great nephews, Josh Demirsar and Spencer Schwartz.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Shortridge; birth mother, Myrtle Carlson (1907-1935); and mother, Blanche Shortridge.

Throughout his life, Charles was recognized as a leader in his community, church, and family. He will be remembered for his humility, gratitude, kindness, and steadfast faith.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Calvary Fargo Church, 4575 45th St S., Fargo, ND. A light lunch will be served following the service.

Send cards to:

Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home

C/O Erma Shortridge

215 7th St. S.

Fargo, ND 58103

Donations to Calvary Fargo Church Building Fund – select link below and choose ‘Building Fund’ from the dropdown.

https://calvaryfargo.churchcenter.com/giving