Howard Gitlestad, age 79, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at SMP St. Catherine’s in Fargo.

Howard was born on January 24, 1947, in Moorhead, Minnesota. He graduated from Moorhead High School and later served in the United States Army. In 1972 he was united in marriage to Lynn Schulz. They made their home in Fargo, North Dakota where they raised their three children.

Howard built a long and proud career as a Journeyman Painter, working in the trade for more than 45 years. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident to all who knew him.

He loved spending time at the lake, fishing, and sitting around a camp fire with friends. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and nothing meant more to him than time spent with those he loved.

Howard is survived by his wife, Lynn; his children, Nicole (Shawn) Lees, Justin Gitlestad, and Randy Gitlestad; his brothers, Melvin (Renae) Morse and Wayne (Belinda) Morse; four grandchildren, Alexandra, Erin, Dawson, and Dylan; and four great-grandchildren, Lorelai, Mia, William, and Jade.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers and three sisters.

Celebration of Life will be held from 2p - 4p on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Hope Lutheran Church 2900 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 58102. Burial at Fargo National Cemetery will be at a later date.