Roger L. Rivard

Roger Rivard, 72, lifelong resident of Argyle, MN, passed away on Saturday, June 11, 2016, at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND.

Roger Lee Rivard was born on May 13, 1944, on his family’s farm, in Fork Township, Marshall County, MN, to Donald and Mary (Osowski) Rivard. He grew up on the farm 4 miles west of Argyle. He attended grade school at St. Rose and Argyle Public School. He graduated from the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston, MN, in 1962. He then attended the North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND, and earned a degree in diesel mechanics and welding. Roger joined the Army Reserves in 1966 and served in the 311 Medical Core until 1971.

On July 6, 1968, Roger was united in marriage to Patricia Benson, at Nativity Catholic Church, St. Paul, MN. The couple made their home in Argyle, MN, where they lived for 47 years together. Roger farmed his whole life and especially enjoyed repairing machinery. He was a member of the St. Rose Catholic Church, served on the financial council, and volunteered his time and services at St. Rose for many years. Roger was a member of the Argyle American Legion for 43 years and was a member of the marching squad. He also belonged to the Argyle Lion’s Club and was a member of the Northwest Angle Edge Riders snowmobile club.

Roger loved spending time at his family cabin at the Northwest Angle. He enjoyed being at the lake, playing with his “grandbabies,” and watching them grow up. Roger had his private pilots license and took pleasure in giving rides to his family and friends and making many flights to the Northwest Angle. Roger will always be remembered for his hardy laugh, his many exaggerated stories, and his willingness to talk to everyone.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; children Rita (Jeff) Miller of Dickinson, ND, Aaron (Tiffany) Rivard of Argyle, and Nichole (Scott) Groven of Argyle; nine grandchildren, Ty and Zane Miller, Reid, Archer, and Dash Rivard, and Madelyn, Katelyn, Jocelyn, and Brooklyn Groven; brother, Royal (Karen) Rivard of Bemidji, MN; and nephews, Ryan (Kari), Brad (Kari), and Ross (Jaci) Rivard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Mary; infant sister, Shirley; his grandparents, Aime and Irene Rivard, and John and Helen Osowski; and in-laws, Vernon and Gertrude Benson of Milwaukee, WI.

Visitation: Thursday, June 16, from 5-7 PM, with a Rosary at 6:40 PM, and Prayer Service at 7:00 PM, in St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Argyle, MN; and one hour prior to Mass.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 AM on Friday, June 17, 2016, in St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Interment: St. Rose Cemetery, Argyle, MN.

Military Honors Provided by Argyle American Legion, Post 353.

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