David Deitrich Williamschen

David Deitrich Williamschen, 87, a resident of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at LB Broen Home, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born to Jacob David Williamschen and Martha Iona Maxwell Rivers Williamschen on August 17, 1938, in Erie Township, Becker County, Minnesota.

After high school, David joined the Untied States Naval Reserve on August 19, 1958, and was honorably discharged on August 8, 1962. After serving, he moved to Minneapolis and worked for Bemis Corp. While at a party at his future brother-in-law, Larry Scully and sister-in-law, Marcy's house, he met Lyla Johnson. David and Lyla eloped and were married in Sisseton, South Dakota, on January 29, 1965. In 1967, they moved to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and resided there for 59 years. They were married for 53 years when Lyla passed away from cancer in 2018.

David had many occupations during his life. Upon moving to Fergus Falls, his first job was working for the Fergus Falls Police Department. He also worked for the City of Fergus Falls as a City Health Inspector and as a Lab Technician for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. In his retirement, he drove cars for Nelson Ford in Fergus Falls.

David enjoyed classic cars, motorcycles, fishing, wood carving, and his favorite dog, Brucie.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Jacob and Martha; his sisters, Alettajan and Maxine; an infant brother, Franklin; sister-in-law, Marcy Scully, and his wife, Lyla.

Survivors include his daughter, Lisa (Kirk) Dewey of Bismark, ND; his son, Dean (Jill) Williamschen of Fergus Falls; five grandchildren, Erin Dewey, Troy (Jaymee) Dewey, Berit (Blaine) Hjelmstad, Reid (Liz) Williamschen, and Detric Williamschen; four great-granddaughters, Maeve, Wren, and Jadelyn Hjelmstad and Olive Williamschen. David is also survived by five nieces, four nephews, and his best friend and brother-in-law, Larry Scully of Fergus Falls, MN/Apache Junction, AZ.

A family graveside service will be held and Bethlehem Cemetery in Fergus Falls.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com